The Samhain Sunrise in early November illuminates the chamber of the Mound of the Hostages on the Hill of Tara. Samhain is the cross quarter of the astronomical year, half way between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice. The equinox sunrise illuminates Cairn T at Loughcrew and the winter solstice sunrise illuminates the passage and chamber of the great mound at Newgrange.

This Samhain Sunrise was photographed on the 13th of November about a week after the cross quarter day, so the rising sun illuminated the side of the chamber rather than the back. The parallel lines are a shadow from the iron gate at the entrance to the mound.

Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny) in the Samhain sunrise, now standing on the King's Seat or Forrad, the stone once stood in front of the entrance to the Mound of Hostages. According to legend on the inauguration of a worthy high king the stone would roar its approval.

Boyne Valley Private Day Tours

Pick up and return to your accommodation or cruise ship. Suggested day tour: Newgrange World Heritage site, 10th century High Crosses at Monasterboice, Hill of Tara the seat of the High Kings of Ireland and the Hill of Slane where St. Patrick let a Paschal fire in 433  More ...