Winter Solstice sunrise at Newgrange
The mornings leading up to the 21st of December 2006 were foggy, so it was
wonderful that the winds picked up to banish the fog and let the sun
through to illuminate Newgrange.
The passage and chamber inside the ancient mound at Newgrange are
illuminated by the winter solstice sunrise. A shaft of sunlight shines
through the roof box over the entrance and penetrates the passage to light up the chamber.
The dramatic event lasts for 17 minutes at dawn on a few days before and after the Winter
Solstice. Admission to the chamber at Newgrange for the Winter Solstice
sunrise is by
lottery.

Newgrange Winter Solstice sunrise - 21st December 2006

Sunrise viewed from the Newgrange mound

Newgrange Winter Solstice sunrise

Newgrange Winter Solstice sunrise

Newgrange fully illuminated by the Winter Solstice Sunrise

Close up of the Roof Box which channels the sun's rays to the Chamber
This photography by Alan Betson taken
in 2004 shows the beam of sunlight inside the passage at Newgrange.
More Images from 2004.
The 2006 Winter Solstice
Draw
took place on the 29th of September, there were 27,485 applications.
Application forms are now available at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre
for the 2007 Winter Solstice Draw.
Boyne Valley Private Day Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and culture of the Boyne Valley with our full-day private tours.
Visit Newgrange World Heritage site, explore the Hill of Slane, where Saint Patrick famously lit the Paschal fire.
Discover the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of power for the High Kings of Ireland.
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