Why this matters
A portal dolmen; likely dating to the Neolithic or early Bronze Age. Its local folklore associating it with a Scandinavian giant suggests possible medieval or later legendary overlay, but the structure itself represents an important megalithic tradition in the region.
What is recorded here
Situated on a rise on a NE-facing slope. It is described in gothic lettering only on the 1907 edition of the OS 6-inch map as ‘Minnavarmore’. In the folk tradition it is the burial place of a Scandinavian giant called Manowar, who came here to kill Fin McCool. Fearing the foreign visitor, Fin had himself disguised as a baby by his wife and bit Manowar on the finger when the latter attempted to tease him. As this was just the baby Manowar became afraid and attempted to leave but dropped dead mysteriously afterwards (Flanagan 1933; IFC, Schools MSS, (931), 184-88: https://www.duchas.ie/en/cbes). A single gallery (L 4.5m; Wth c. 1.7m) is aligned E-W with two jamb stones surviving at the E end. The interior is obscured by spoil.
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.
Compiled by: Michael Moore
Date of revision: 27 February 2018
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