Brownshill Portal Tomb (Dolmen)
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Brownshill Dolmen is a very large megalithic portal tomb situated 3 km east of Carlow, in County Carlow, Ireland. Its capstone weighs an estimated 150 metric tons, and is reputed to be the heaviest in Europe. The tomb is listed as a National Monument.
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Brownshill Dolmen is a very large megalithic portal tomb situated 3 km east of Carlow, in County Carlow, Ireland. Its capstone weighs an estimated 150 metric tons, and is reputed to be the heaviest in Europe. The tomb is listed as a National Monument.
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Not visible from the road. To get there, take the R726 and watch for a tiny visitor's car park on the side of the road. Keep an eye out for signs as it is easy to miss. Admission is free. The dolmen sits in the middle of a barley field on the former estate of the Browne family from which it gets its name. It is barely visible from the road - but only if you know what to look for. From the car park, follow the narrow footpath around the field and up to the monument in the middle of a clearing. Takes about 5 minutes to walk. Grounds around the dolman are well kept. A plaque describes the historical significance of the site. Though nice to see and learn about, little kids probably would not find it interesting.
Howard WalshHoward Walsh
50
The south-east is not as well-known for its megaliths as the north-west for great megaliths but here is one notable exception. The Brownshill Dolmen is the largest of the portal tombs in Ireland and in Europe (I believe) It is situated east of Carlow town on the Hacketstown Road. It is well signposted and there is easy enough access from the carpark along a walking track towards the tomb. Unlike many of these sites in the west, the access is neat and clearly defined along the edges of fields.
Fergal JenningsFergal Jennings
20
Plenty of parking available. The path has been resurfaced since we were there last, which allows access even in wet weather. A few seats and a bench along the way . Info boards at the carpark and up at the dolmen. The capstone which is about 150 tons and thought to be the biggest in Europe is incredibly impressive. Approximately 3/4 of a km walk. Wheelchair and buggy friendly. Well worth a visit. All free.
Van ManVan Man
50
It was a powerful experience to stand next to such a incredible monument. You can't help but feel the weight of the history of this place. The approach on the pathway builds the anticipation, as you get nearer, and the massive size of the construction becomes apparent. I loved it, and unlike many of the Neolithic structures I visited while in Ireland, it is easy to access. Good parking and pathway.
Patrick RobertsonPatrick Robertson
00
The Brownshill Dolmen is the largest of the portal tombs in Ireland with a capstone weighing 150 tons. Visible from the parking area, there is a path from the carpark, around a lush field. About 10 mins walk with lots of birds hopping around. Enormous in scale, it was very peaceful there. A plaque at the site gives an insight into the history. Magnificent & a credit to those who maintain the area.
mrs ziggymrs ziggy
10
Brownshill dolmen is astounding. A truly massive hunk of granite (weighing in at over 100 tonnes!) serves as a capstone. The feat of engineering to build this monument (several thousand years ago) beggers belief. Good parking and a path provided to the site. No admission (it sits in the middle of a working field). Worth a visit to understand the size of the dolmen itself!
Paddy HalliganPaddy Halligan
30
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carlowtourism.com
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