Achill-henge is a 2011 concrete structure on Achill Island off the northwest coast of County Mayo, Ireland. The term henge is used colloquially only and does not indicate any structural or cultural similarity to prehistoric monuments found in Ireland.
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Ronan Halpin Gallery
4.8
(9)
Achill Henge stands as a bold and enigmatic testament to individual vision on Achill Island. Constructed from massive stones in a deliberate circular formation, the site evokes the mystery of prehistoric monuments while asserting a distinctly modern, idiosyncratic character. Its scale, balance, and sheer audacity demonstrate a remarkable commitment to craft and imagination.
What truly sets Achill Henge apart is the story behind its creation. Built without formal planning permission, the structure became the subject of legal scrutiny. In 2012, the High Court ruled that it constituted development requiring planning approval, giving Mayo County Council authority to enforce its removal. Despite this, the henge remains standing, a symbol of determination, creativity, and the tension between private vision and public regulation.
Visitors encounter more than a visual spectacle—they witness a narrative of ambition, resilience, and the occasional clash with bureaucracy. Every stone tells a story of boldness and persistence, cementing Joe’s legacy as a true local legend and making Achill Henge an essential stop for those fascinated by contemporary folk architecture and the intersection of...
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This place is really cool. I wasn't expecting it to be so large but I was delighted with it. Not only is Achill-Henge very impressive to look at but it is enhanced by the backdrop of some lovely mountains that really enhance the experience. I have only given it 4 stars however because it doesn't seem to be fully completed yet. The ground surrounding the Henge is quite trecherous and doesn't really look too inviting. My brother and I were trying to find it and thankfully some locals were able to direct us up to it. I know I read it in another review that the car park isn't suitable for most cars but I want to enphasise that it is not possible for any car to get down there. I got my car down some of the way but had to turn back before getting beached or damaging the underside of my car. I believe those 2 things are only minor but together they do knock...
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A really cool monument/art piece /experience (I'm not too sure what to call it)
The concrete pilars are impressive and the grafiti there adds to the experience
There's not much parking nearby, especially if you're cautious about driving off road
It looks like people have started a stone pile in the centre which is cool
The scenery around here was beautiful too, we arived judt at golden hour and seeing the light and shadow on the neighbouring fields was lovely! - see the attached photos
If you're already on achil and are looking for something unusual to check out before driving home I'd check out achil henge! The industrial look of the concrete contrasts very nicely with the...
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