description Knocknarea Cairn Overview
The Knocknarea Cairn is a large, unexcavated Neolithic monument positioned at the summit of Knocknarea mountain in County Sligo, Ireland. The cairn is traditionally known as Misgúin Maeve and is identified in local folklore as the legendary burial place of the ancient queen Medb of Connacht. It measures approximately 55 meters in diameter and 10 meters in height, making it one of the most prominent prehistoric landmarks in the region. The structure consists of a mantle of loose stones over a limestone core, typical of the passage tomb tradition found across the Irish Neolithic landscape.
help Knocknarea Cairn FAQ
Where is the Knocknarea Cairn located?
The Knocknarea Cairn stands on the summit of Knocknarea mountain in County Sligo, Ireland. It is a large Neolithic monument that remains unexcavated.
What is the Knocknarea Cairn also called?
The monument is traditionally known as Misgúin Maeve. Local folklore identifies it as the burial place of the legendary queen Medb, also known as Queen Maeve.
Can visitors enter the Knocknarea Cairn?
The cairn is described as unexcavated, so it is not an ordinary excavated chamber monument open for interior tours. Visitors encounter the large stone mound at the summit of Knocknarea.
Is Queen Medb definitely buried at the Knocknarea Cairn?
That identification belongs to local folklore rather than a confirmed archaeological finding. The cairn is traditionally linked with Medb, but it has not been excavated to establish the burial identity.
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