Nearby the passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth are the passage tombs of Dowth, also known as The Fairy Mound of Darkness. This site is however not very spectacular and shows the signs of centuries of abuse and improper use. There is evidence that the tombs are used as a fortress in early Christian times and that it is burnt twice in history. The final blow was given in the mid-1800's when a sloppy excavation was carried out by the Royal Irish Academy. What is left is a mound with two entrances, both on the west side, of which one is closed for public. The tombs are decorated with some stunning megalithic art.
Dowth is the least visited of the Passage Tombs of the Boyne Valley Complex (Bru na Boinne) it is not part of the tour from the Bru na Boinne visitor centre. Dowth is similar in size to the two other great passage tombs of this megalithic complex, Newgrange and Knowth. Dowth has two tombs, the entrance to these tombs are both situated on the Western perimeter, the largest of these tombs, Dowth North has a passage approximately 27 feet long, leading to a cruciform chamber. The other tomb, Dowth South also on the western side has a single side chamber off a large circular chamber. These tombs are closed to the public at present.
Outside the entrance you can see a large kerbstone protruding from the ground. This kerbstone has cup marks and is inscribed with spiral motifs. I personally think it is a shame this kerbstone is left in this condition.
The smaller tomb at Dowth is aligned to the setting sun at winter solstice which also indicates the longest night of the year, the period of greatest darkness, Dowth is known as the house of darkness, also the Irish name for Dowth is Dubad which means 'Darkness'
The Cache
Please beware that you can be seen by Muggles from the visitor’s center
Please retrieve and replace the cache with extreme care to prevent Muggles from discovering the cache as this is a very popular area.The container needs to be replaced in the same position as found to keep the weather out.
Windsocker