Brú na Bóinne - Ensemble archéologique de la Vallée de la Boyne

Photo : Conorohara (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Located in the Boyne Valley in Ireland, this archaeological ensemble comprises a series of Neolithic monuments dating to around 3200 BCE, making them among the oldest known megalithic structures in Europe. The site includes three principal passage tombs: Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth, constructed from stone and earth and featuring elaborate carved designs and internal chambers. These monuments represent an exceptional testimony to the technological and artistic capabilities of Neolithic societies, demonstrating sophisticated knowledge of astronomy, architecture, and stone carving techniques. The Boyne Valley landscape contains numerous additional archaeological features, including smaller tumuli and ritual enclosures, which collectively form one of the most significant concentrations of megalithic remains in Northern Europe. The monuments are characterised by their distinctive passage tomb architecture, corbelled stone chambers, and intricate geometric carvings, which provide evidence of complex ceremonial and burial practices. The site's cultural significance lies in its contribution to understanding prehistoric European societies and the development of monumental architecture in the Neolithic period.