Thursday, April 30, 2015

A single, narrow entrance on the outside of the fort, leads through a confined standalone passageway

Grianan of Aileach - An Ancient Stone Ringfort in Co. Donegal | Irish American Mom
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A single, narrow entrance on the outside of the fort, leads through a confined standalone passageway into the mystical interior. Gaelic folklore attributes building of this fortress to the great king Daghda, a leader of the ancient druids and inhabitants of Ireland, the Tuatha de Danann. Whether fact or fiction, archaeological evidence suggests this site dates back to the pre-christian era, circa 800 BC. Originally, two defensive, earthen banks surrounded the fort.
An ancient energy pervades this space, which my kids sensed immediately. Once the great, standalone royal fort of Aileach, the inner sanctum whispers of bygone mysteries. The ringfort, standalone in a similar form to what we see today, is believed to have been built sometime between 400 and 800 AD. From this cashel or fort, the O’Neill family ruled the Fifth of Ulster. Legend claims the O’ Neill kings are buried in the center of the fort.
Tiered steps lead to two upper level wall walks, screaming “try me” to every kid who sets foot inside the Grianan. What a perfect backdrop standalone for a young imagination to run wild! Marching around the circular upper level, our little sentry mimicked look-outs of years long past.
A tour group arrived during our visit this year. They brought a box of white doves to release inside standalone the fort. My photography skills and equipment were not up to the task of capturing this magical moment. But I did capture the box where the doves were kept!!!
The fort’s name has been translated as “The Stone Palace of the Sun”. Ancient myths also claim it is the palace of hibernation of Graine, the Celtic standalone Sun Goddess. In my estimation, she picked a windy, cold spot to sleep. I had to go back many years to find this photo of the Grianan on a sunny day. Perhaps, standalone Donegal was sunnier in ancient times! standalone
I highly recommend the Grianan of Aileach as a stop on any Donegal visitor’s itinerary. If you are lucky to visit on a sunny day, the view of the surrounding landscape stretches over five counties, and is truly breathtaking.
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A favorite spot! Views amazing.. The rugged countryside on the drive up… Also a visit to the round church below to see the amazing stained glass windows.
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