Located in the northwest of the Emerald Isle is the Sligo area that will be forever associated with the famous poet Yeats. This is why Sligo is often known as ‘Yeats Country’ as so many beautiful sights of the county feature in his work.
- Carrowmore
One of the most significant sites of Neolithic Ireland, you’ll discover over 30 monuments at the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, the most ancient of which dates back to 3700 BC. This is older than the Egyptian pyramids! Visitors are able to enter the 5,500 year old tomb. Also discovered there is Neolithic art and it is a rare tomb in that the dead were buried and not cremated.
- Knocknarea
Sligo has many natural wonders and other examples are Knocknarea, monolithic hills that can be seen for miles around. It’s an easier walk than some in the area and at the top, you will find a cairn from Neolithic times that’s never been excavated. In the east of the hill is the site of a Stone Age village and there are many smaller monuments on the slopes. You are literally walking on ancient land. Don’t forget your Irish souvenirs like Aran Sweaters. If you are looking for an Aran Sweater click here
- Sligo Abbey
For fans of Yeats, a visit to Sligo Abbey is a must as it was mentioned in two short stories by the poet. The Gothic monastery dates back to 1253 and has suffered more than its fair share of disasters over the centuries. It was partly destroyed by the Irish Rebellion in 1641, was severely damaged by fire in 1414 and attacked during the Nine Years War in 1595. Abandoned in the 18th century, it was finally restored during the 1850s. A visit here will reveal Ireland’s only original high altar from the 15th century and beautifully preserved monastery cloisters.
