Dating back to the Neolithic period, Poulnabrone Dolmen (Poll na mBron in Irish, meaning hole of the sorrows) is a portal tomb in the Burren. It has been estimated to be as old as 4200 B.C. to 2900 B.C. The dolmen consists of a 12 foot capstone supported by two slender portal stones, which lift the capstone approximately six feet above the ground creating a chamber in a low cairn. Excavations found the cremated remains of at least 22 adults and children. Personal items buried with the dead included a polished stone axe, a bone pendant, quartz crystals, weapons, and pottery. It is the oldest dated megalithic monument in Ireland.
The journey begins in Galway, where we find the N67 road to Ballyvaughan, approximately 30 miles (46.7 km) away. Once in Ballyvaughan, take the minor road R480 to the Poulnabrone Dolmen,
5-1/2 miles (9.1 km) and a mere 12 minutes away.
Click on "More Options" (above left) for a larger view of the map 
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Visited: April 18, 2008. In addition to Poulnabrone, the Burren area has many worthwhile megalithic sites to visit. Visit the Ireland Stone Pages to find other sites in the Burren.
Visitors Information
Additional information may be found at the Poulnabrone Dolmen website.
Disclaimer
Please check local road conditions for possible changes prior to venturing forth on this journey.
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