Knowth was constructed around 3200 BCE during Ireland’s Neolithic period, making it older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramid of Giza. It forms a core component of the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing the height_ of prehistoric engineering, ritual planning, and symbolic art in Atlantic Europe.

Architectural Uniqueness

At the heart of Knowth lies a massive central mound, distinguished by its two opposing passages—one facing east and the other west. Unlike Newgrange, these passages do not connect but are separated by a monumental stone mass, reflecting a unique architectural concept rarely found in Neolithic Europe. Surrounding the main mound are approximately 18 smaller satellite tombs, creating a ceremonial “cemetery” landscape that suggests Knowth functioned as a vast communal ritual center.

The Capital of Megalithic Art

Knowth is internationally renowned as the capital of Neolithic megalithic art, containing over 50% of all known Neolithic rock carvings in Western Europe. The mound is encircled by 127 massive kerbstones, nearly all intricately carved with spirals, lozenges, crescents, zigzag lines, and dot patterns. Among them, Kerbstone 52, known as the Calendar Stone, is especially famous for carvings believed to represent lunar cycles and sophisticated time-tracking knowledge.

A “Living” Mound Through Time

Unlike Newgrange, Knowth was continuously reoccupied over thousands of years. During the Iron Age, it served as a defensive site, likely a ringfort (rath). In the Medieval period, it became the capital of the Kingdom of North Brega. Archaeological excavations have uncovered houses, workshops, and kilns built directly atop the mound, illustrating its transformation from sacred tomb to royal and political center.

Astronomical Alignment

While Newgrange is aligned with the Winter Solstice, Knowth’s passages align with the Spring and Autumn Equinoxes. At sunrise and sunset on these days, sunlight enters the eastern and western passages respectively, symbolizing balance between light and darkness—an enduring reflection of Neolithic cosmology.

• All visits must begin at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre in Donore, County Meath. Access to Knowth is provided exclusively by official shuttle bus tours; visitors cannot drive directly to the monument.

• Use a macro or close-focus camera setting to capture the fine textures of the 5,000-year-old kerbstone carvings.

• Wear sturdy walking shoes, as grassy areas around the mound can be uneven and slippery.

• The highlight of the visit is climbing the modern stairway to the summit, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of the Boyne Valley.

• Outdoor access to Knowth is often seasonal (typically April–November); always check Heritage Ireland schedules when traveling in winter.

Admission Fee:

Brú na Bóinne Tour (Newgrange + Knowth)

Includes guided access to both monuments, entry into the Newgrange chamber, and the Visitor Centre exhibition.

• Adult: €18

• Senior (60+): €16

• Student / Child (12–17): €12

• Child (Under 12): Free

• Family Ticket: €48

Knowth Tour + Exhibition (Knowth Only)

• Adult: €10

• Senior (60+): €8

• Student / Child (12–17): €5

• Child (Under 12): Free

• Family Ticket: €25

Visitor Centre Exhibition Only

• Adult: €5

• Senior (60+): €4

• Student / Child (12–17): €3

• Child (Under 12): Free

• Family Ticket: €13

Notes (2025):

Advance booking via Heritage Ireland is strongly recommended. Knowth is usually closed from late November to late February, during which only Newgrange-specific tickets are available. Visitors with disabilities and their accompanying carers are admitted free of charge.

Opening Time:

• Knowth (The Monument Site): Monday – Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (Entry Point): Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:45 PM

Important Notes:

• Mandatory Access Route: Visitors cannot access Knowth directly by private vehicle. All visits must begin at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, with transport provided by official shuttle bus only.

• Seasonal Availability: While the Visitor Centre operates year-round, public access to the Knowth monument is typically seasonal, often closing from late November through February or March, depending on weather and conservation conditions.

• Advance Booking: Tours frequently sell out, especially during peak seasons. Pre-booking via the official Heritage Ireland website is strongly recommended.