Ceide Fields

Ceide Fields is the most extensive Stone-Age monument in the world. Underneath the bog at the north Mayo coast are fields, dwelling areas and megalithic tombs from 5,000 years ago. The site is very large. From the back fence the multi-storey visitors' centre pyramid looks tiny.


Unfortunately for the visitor, unlike the archaeologist, very little is visible above the ground. There are organised rock piles and visible fence lines, but to appreciate the significance of these finds it is necessary to go through the exhibits in the visitors' centre to see the work done by scientists to unravel the mysteries of this place. Ceide Fields is a huge enterprise that must have been undertaken over a long period of time by a large number of individuals in an organised manner. The fields for livestock are extensive and the dwellings are scattered throughout the area, suggesting that this place was established in peaceful times when there was little need to plan for defence.

One thing is obvious even to the layperson's eyes: our ancient ancestors knew how to pick a spot with a good view to set up home.