Giants Grave

Located on a slight shelf of a SE-facing slope. This is a grass and scrub-covered trapezoidal cairn (L 40m; Wth 23m at E) orientated ENE-WSW. Six stones to the N and two to the S define the extent of a broad, probable three-quarter court (Wth 9m) at its E end. To the N and S of the court and about 1-2m E of it are two large blocks, perhaps vestiges of the façade. The gallery entrance and adjoining court stones are apparently covered by the cairn. The gallery has three stones; a N side-stone and jamb-stone of the chamber and to the W, the S side-stone of the adjoining, inner chamber. A single subsidiary chamber opens to the W at the rear of cairn. To the S of this is a set block which may mark the back of the cairn. A portion of a drystone kerb (L 3m) survives along the SW edge of the cairn. (de Valera 1960, 123) The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Monaghan' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1986). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 July 2007

A Neolithic passage tomb; significant as part of the broader passage tomb tradition in Ireland, reflecting early ritual and burial practices.