KILKENNY – Early risers gathered this morning at the Knockroe Passage Tomb near Ahenny to witness the first of its unique dual solar alignments. At 8:40 am, the rising sun’s rays illuminated the eastern chamber of the 5,000-year-old Neolithic site, known locally as “The Caiseal.”
Unlike most passage tombs, Knockroe is special because it aligns with both the sunrise and the sunset. A second gathering is expected at 3:40 pm for the sunset alignment in the western chamber. Visitors planning to attend the afternoon event are advised to wear sturdy footwear and allow extra time for the uphill walk to the monument.
Meanwhile, at Newgrange in County Meath, hundreds of people gathered in the hope of seeing the sun enter the ancient chamber. However, due to strict space limitations and the annual lottery system, only 14 lucky winners were permitted inside to witness the dawn phenomenon firsthand.
