Navan Fort (Old Irish: Emaın Macha ([ˈeṽənʲ ˈṽaxə]), Modern Irish: Eamhain Mhacha ([ˈaw̃nʲ ˈw̃axə]) is an ancient monument in County Armagh, Northern Ireland. According to tradition it was one of the great royal sites of pre-Christian Gaelic Ireland and the capital of the Ulaid. Severed heads of their enemies were said to be kept here. It is a large circular enclosure—marked by a bank and ditch—with a circular mound and the remains of a ring barrow in the middle. Archeological investigations show that there were once buildings on the site, including a huge roundhouse-like structure. The site is believed to have had a pagan ceremonial purpose. According to the Oxford Dictionary of Celtic Mythology, "the [Eamhain Mhacha] of myth and legend is a far grander and mysterious place than archeological excavation supports".
The name Eamhain Mhacha is thought to mean "the pair of Macha" or "the twins of Macha". 'Navan' is an anglicisation of the Irish An Eamhain.
Location and description
The site is a State Care Historic Monument in the townland of Navan, in Armagh City and District Council area. It is on a low hill about 1.6miles (2.6km) west of Armagh (at grid ref. area H847 452). The site consists of a circular enclosure 250metres (820ft) in diameter, marked by a bank and ditch. Oddly, the ditch is on the inside, suggesting it was not built for defence.
Rosaleen tells us why Navan Fort and Centre is a must-visit Armagh attraction
Unleash your warrior spirit with even more myth and reality at Navan Centre & Fort after new and exciting archaeological discovery.
Armagh’s Navan Centre, which tells the story of one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, Navan Fort, is fully back for summer 2021 with a special programme of activity to celebrate its exciting 2,000-year-old history.
The popular and unique visitor attraction, located just two minutes from Ireland’s oldest city, Armagh, is currently at the centre of a new global focus after researchers uncovered new evidence of “absolutely huge” religious structures dating back to the Iron Age.
published: 08 Jun 2021
Pagans: The Navan Fort at Armagh
published: 14 Mar 2021
Navan Fort County Armagh Northern Ireland 2018 (Navan Centre And Fort)
Navan Centre & Fort is a place where myth and reality meet. It is one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha. Legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales.
Living History At Navan – Have you ever wondered about the past? How did people live their lives 2,000 years ago? What were their homes like? How did they survive? What were their daily tasks? Allow our Living History characters to bring these questions to life before your eyes! This memorable and interactive experience takes place in our replica Iron Age dwelling. Sit down by the fire and...
published: 20 Sep 2018
Ancient Emain Macha (Havin' the Craic at Navan Fort!) || Diary of a Ditch Witch
*correction - Tandragee man was not found at Emain Macha, but at Tandragee near Newry*
Huge thanks to Navan Fort Visitors Centre for allowing me to film on the premises.
We had a great time discovering their exhibits, including the Loughnashade horn and the 2,300 year old skull of a North African barbary ape.
We also learned a little about Haughey's Fort, The King's Stables and the ritual offerings made at Loughnashade.
To support this channel: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DitchWitch
Music:
'The Oriel March' performed by the Oriel Traditional Orchestra and composed by Daithí Kearney. Audio editing by Stephanie Caffrey. The recording was made for a project with the Heritage Office of Louth County Council and funded by The Creative Ireland Programme (Louth).
'Dawn of Man' by Quincas...
published: 27 Jan 2022
Navan Fort Video
Stay at Killeavy Castle Estate and explore Armagh. Visit the stunning and exciting site of the ancient Navan Fort. Become a Celt for a Day or learn about the Cattle Raid of Colley. Discover the folklore stories of the area from The Curse of Macha and the Story of Emain Macha.
published: 27 Jan 2022
Navan Centre and Fort Co Armagh; Seat of Ancient Irish Kings-Emain Macha /Navan Fort Armagh
A place where myth and reality meets - that's exactly how people tend to describe Navan Centre and Fort which is located in county Armagh, Northern Ireland, and which is the place regarded as the seat of the ancient Irish kings.
Navan Centre and Fort is one of the most important archaeological sites in Northern Ireland, the legendery Emain Macha. Okay, there are some places - touristic locations - in Northern Ireland that have their legendary stories, some of them are believed by the public while other are not, and Navan Centre and Fort is one of those different places that carry its stories.
When it comes to this place, legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the her...
Unleash your warrior spirit with even more myth and reality at Navan Centre & Fort after new and exciting archaeological discovery.
Armagh’s Navan Centre, whic...
Unleash your warrior spirit with even more myth and reality at Navan Centre & Fort after new and exciting archaeological discovery.
Armagh’s Navan Centre, which tells the story of one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, Navan Fort, is fully back for summer 2021 with a special programme of activity to celebrate its exciting 2,000-year-old history.
The popular and unique visitor attraction, located just two minutes from Ireland’s oldest city, Armagh, is currently at the centre of a new global focus after researchers uncovered new evidence of “absolutely huge” religious structures dating back to the Iron Age.
Unleash your warrior spirit with even more myth and reality at Navan Centre & Fort after new and exciting archaeological discovery.
Armagh’s Navan Centre, which tells the story of one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, Navan Fort, is fully back for summer 2021 with a special programme of activity to celebrate its exciting 2,000-year-old history.
The popular and unique visitor attraction, located just two minutes from Ireland’s oldest city, Armagh, is currently at the centre of a new global focus after researchers uncovered new evidence of “absolutely huge” religious structures dating back to the Iron Age.
Navan Centre & Fort is a place where myth and reality meet. It is one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha. Le...
Navan Centre & Fort is a place where myth and reality meet. It is one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha. Legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales.
Living History At Navan – Have you ever wondered about the past? How did people live their lives 2,000 years ago? What were their homes like? How did they survive? What were their daily tasks? Allow our Living History characters to bring these questions to life before your eyes! This memorable and interactive experience takes place in our replica Iron Age dwelling. Sit down by the fire and witness Iron Age life come alive! Enjoy helping the Celts prepare and cook their meals and get your hands dirty in the garden and herb beds.
Prepare yourself for battle and learn the skills to survive as an ancient warrior, or sit and relax and allow your imagination to wander as the great tradition of storytelling is used to pass on some of the history of the area and the great warriors who once lived here!
The Navan Centre & Fort, located just two miles from Armagh City, is a place where myth and reality meet. As the ancient seat of Kings and the earliest capital of Ulster, there is plenty to explore.
Step back in time by 2000 years with a visit to our Iron Age dwelling (dwelling open April-September), where you will meet the Celts going about their daily lives and bringing history to life. Discover how they survived and thrived as they engage you in this highly interactive and unique experience.
After meeting real life warriors, learn more about the stories of the bravest of them all – Cú Chulainn and the Red Branch Knights. Our multilingual AV show incorporates many of the tales of the Ulster Cycle associated with the great site of Navan Fort. With archaeological evidence of the site dating back to 95BC, our experienced tour guides will accompany you to what is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most famous sites, Emain Macha (Navan Fort). Indeed, this site is considered to be what brought St. Patrick to Armagh, the Ecclesiastical Capital of Ireland.
For younger visitors, our indoor and outdoor Archaeology Discovery space is a must-see, along with an Ecology trail to truly appreciate the diversity of wildlife the grounds have to offer.
This is a real gem of the Orchard County and offers a unique experience and insight into life long ago.
Opening times
Summer Opening: 1st April - 30th September, Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 17:30. Last admission 16:00.
Winter Opening: 1st October - 31st March, Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 16:00. Last admission 15.00.
#NavanFort #NorthernIreland #LittleLionKubz
Navan Centre & Fort is a place where myth and reality meet. It is one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha. Legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales.
Living History At Navan – Have you ever wondered about the past? How did people live their lives 2,000 years ago? What were their homes like? How did they survive? What were their daily tasks? Allow our Living History characters to bring these questions to life before your eyes! This memorable and interactive experience takes place in our replica Iron Age dwelling. Sit down by the fire and witness Iron Age life come alive! Enjoy helping the Celts prepare and cook their meals and get your hands dirty in the garden and herb beds.
Prepare yourself for battle and learn the skills to survive as an ancient warrior, or sit and relax and allow your imagination to wander as the great tradition of storytelling is used to pass on some of the history of the area and the great warriors who once lived here!
The Navan Centre & Fort, located just two miles from Armagh City, is a place where myth and reality meet. As the ancient seat of Kings and the earliest capital of Ulster, there is plenty to explore.
Step back in time by 2000 years with a visit to our Iron Age dwelling (dwelling open April-September), where you will meet the Celts going about their daily lives and bringing history to life. Discover how they survived and thrived as they engage you in this highly interactive and unique experience.
After meeting real life warriors, learn more about the stories of the bravest of them all – Cú Chulainn and the Red Branch Knights. Our multilingual AV show incorporates many of the tales of the Ulster Cycle associated with the great site of Navan Fort. With archaeological evidence of the site dating back to 95BC, our experienced tour guides will accompany you to what is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most famous sites, Emain Macha (Navan Fort). Indeed, this site is considered to be what brought St. Patrick to Armagh, the Ecclesiastical Capital of Ireland.
For younger visitors, our indoor and outdoor Archaeology Discovery space is a must-see, along with an Ecology trail to truly appreciate the diversity of wildlife the grounds have to offer.
This is a real gem of the Orchard County and offers a unique experience and insight into life long ago.
Opening times
Summer Opening: 1st April - 30th September, Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 17:30. Last admission 16:00.
Winter Opening: 1st October - 31st March, Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 16:00. Last admission 15.00.
#NavanFort #NorthernIreland #LittleLionKubz
*correction - Tandragee man was not found at Emain Macha, but at Tandragee near Newry*
Huge thanks to Navan Fort Visitors Centre for allowing me to film on th...
*correction - Tandragee man was not found at Emain Macha, but at Tandragee near Newry*
Huge thanks to Navan Fort Visitors Centre for allowing me to film on the premises.
We had a great time discovering their exhibits, including the Loughnashade horn and the 2,300 year old skull of a North African barbary ape.
We also learned a little about Haughey's Fort, The King's Stables and the ritual offerings made at Loughnashade.
To support this channel: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DitchWitch
Music:
'The Oriel March' performed by the Oriel Traditional Orchestra and composed by Daithí Kearney. Audio editing by Stephanie Caffrey. The recording was made for a project with the Heritage Office of Louth County Council and funded by The Creative Ireland Programme (Louth).
'Dawn of Man' by Quincas Moreiras
*correction - Tandragee man was not found at Emain Macha, but at Tandragee near Newry*
Huge thanks to Navan Fort Visitors Centre for allowing me to film on the premises.
We had a great time discovering their exhibits, including the Loughnashade horn and the 2,300 year old skull of a North African barbary ape.
We also learned a little about Haughey's Fort, The King's Stables and the ritual offerings made at Loughnashade.
To support this channel: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DitchWitch
Music:
'The Oriel March' performed by the Oriel Traditional Orchestra and composed by Daithí Kearney. Audio editing by Stephanie Caffrey. The recording was made for a project with the Heritage Office of Louth County Council and funded by The Creative Ireland Programme (Louth).
'Dawn of Man' by Quincas Moreiras
Stay at Killeavy Castle Estate and explore Armagh. Visit the stunning and exciting site of the ancient Navan Fort. Become a Celt for a Day or learn about the Ca...
Stay at Killeavy Castle Estate and explore Armagh. Visit the stunning and exciting site of the ancient Navan Fort. Become a Celt for a Day or learn about the Cattle Raid of Colley. Discover the folklore stories of the area from The Curse of Macha and the Story of Emain Macha.
Stay at Killeavy Castle Estate and explore Armagh. Visit the stunning and exciting site of the ancient Navan Fort. Become a Celt for a Day or learn about the Cattle Raid of Colley. Discover the folklore stories of the area from The Curse of Macha and the Story of Emain Macha.
A place where myth and reality meets - that's exactly how people tend to describe Navan Centre and Fort which is located in county Armagh, Northern Ireland, and...
A place where myth and reality meets - that's exactly how people tend to describe Navan Centre and Fort which is located in county Armagh, Northern Ireland, and which is the place regarded as the seat of the ancient Irish kings.
Navan Centre and Fort is one of the most important archaeological sites in Northern Ireland, the legendery Emain Macha. Okay, there are some places - touristic locations - in Northern Ireland that have their legendary stories, some of them are believed by the public while other are not, and Navan Centre and Fort is one of those different places that carry its stories.
When it comes to this place, legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales. Emain Macha is a pre-Christian royal site that was once the capital of Ulaidh (which is east Ulster today); all these things make Navan Centre and Fort the entry to the home of the Red Branch Knights as well as some of the most famous myths and legends as well.
Navan Fort on the other hand is the centre of the Navan Complex and it takes its name from its townland which is located just outside Armagh city.
For those visiting Navan Centre and Fort, there are a couple of things which could be done and witnessed in that place, such as the exhibition looking at the background of Navan in a local and national context, the audio visual show that brings the myths and legends of the Ulster Cycle to life, the archaeology discovery room that brings archaeology alive to give people the chance to understand and know more about the history of Navan, as well as the fully guided tour which is provided to the people through the whole site.
One of the things that also highlight this place is the fact that some flint tools and pottery were found on the site and they are believed to date back between 4,000 and 2,500 BC, which is another thing that make the place much more treasury.
Even though this place is usually chosen and preferred by adults for the different things they come to discover in it, a lot of those who have been there before with their kids mentioned that it turned out to be a good choice for the kids as well and that goes back to the things it tends to offer them; dressing up in Celtic costumes, digging in the archeo-pit to uncover bones, coins, and even teeth, going through and completing the Navan Ecology Trail so that they could manage to reach the reward at the end, and also the kids got to enjoy the archaeology discovery room and play in the outdoor activity area on the massive wolfhound play piece - so your kids will get to enjoy themselves as well.
Since it is one place of importance for the Irish people, there were different archaeological researches done related to it and according to some of these archaeological investigations, it was found that there were once some buildings on the site that include a huge roundhouse-like structure which has been likened to a temple - it always feels interesting to know more about the history of those destinations which one heads to in Northern Ireland.
Since Navan Centre and Fort is located in county Armagh (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuF7CoGjOhY), there are other destinations which you could place on your list and go to check, such as going to Armagh Cathedral which is also referred to as St. Patrick's Cathedral (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LP-n79-DjXc), visiting Armagh county Museum (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFYgddSDh3k), as well as going to Armagh Planetarium and Observatory which is one different experience and a whole different place for people to visit and take in all the information it could deliver (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hawp6wGrz6w).
All these different beautiful destinations are located in county Armagh, and some even in Armagh city itself (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltxW-k5YcJg), which would attract lots of visitors to them.
It was a different kind of experience for us to visit the Navan Centre and Fort and know about this information but we definitely recommend it to those coming to Northern Ireland and want to visit new places - we want to mention that we always appreciate those touristic places which combine between the inside museums or buildings to check as well as the outdoor spaces which should be also cherished and appreciated, just like the case with Navan Centre and Fort.
Some of the best locations around Ireland / Northern Ireland and further afield.
A great tourist attraction in Armagh - or for anyone! Who needs an excuse to visit Armagh? :-) The seat of ancient Irish Kings - The red branch knights and much more!
If anyway interested in the stories of Emain Macha - then County Armagh is a must visit! Navan Centre and Fort Co Armagh; Seat of Ancient Irish Kings-Emain Macha /Navan Fort Armagh
A place where myth and reality meets - that's exactly how people tend to describe Navan Centre and Fort which is located in county Armagh, Northern Ireland, and which is the place regarded as the seat of the ancient Irish kings.
Navan Centre and Fort is one of the most important archaeological sites in Northern Ireland, the legendery Emain Macha. Okay, there are some places - touristic locations - in Northern Ireland that have their legendary stories, some of them are believed by the public while other are not, and Navan Centre and Fort is one of those different places that carry its stories.
When it comes to this place, legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales. Emain Macha is a pre-Christian royal site that was once the capital of Ulaidh (which is east Ulster today); all these things make Navan Centre and Fort the entry to the home of the Red Branch Knights as well as some of the most famous myths and legends as well.
Navan Fort on the other hand is the centre of the Navan Complex and it takes its name from its townland which is located just outside Armagh city.
For those visiting Navan Centre and Fort, there are a couple of things which could be done and witnessed in that place, such as the exhibition looking at the background of Navan in a local and national context, the audio visual show that brings the myths and legends of the Ulster Cycle to life, the archaeology discovery room that brings archaeology alive to give people the chance to understand and know more about the history of Navan, as well as the fully guided tour which is provided to the people through the whole site.
One of the things that also highlight this place is the fact that some flint tools and pottery were found on the site and they are believed to date back between 4,000 and 2,500 BC, which is another thing that make the place much more treasury.
Even though this place is usually chosen and preferred by adults for the different things they come to discover in it, a lot of those who have been there before with their kids mentioned that it turned out to be a good choice for the kids as well and that goes back to the things it tends to offer them; dressing up in Celtic costumes, digging in the archeo-pit to uncover bones, coins, and even teeth, going through and completing the Navan Ecology Trail so that they could manage to reach the reward at the end, and also the kids got to enjoy the archaeology discovery room and play in the outdoor activity area on the massive wolfhound play piece - so your kids will get to enjoy themselves as well.
Since it is one place of importance for the Irish people, there were different archaeological researches done related to it and according to some of these archaeological investigations, it was found that there were once some buildings on the site that include a huge roundhouse-like structure which has been likened to a temple - it always feels interesting to know more about the history of those destinations which one heads to in Northern Ireland.
Since Navan Centre and Fort is located in county Armagh (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuF7CoGjOhY), there are other destinations which you could place on your list and go to check, such as going to Armagh Cathedral which is also referred to as St. Patrick's Cathedral (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LP-n79-DjXc), visiting Armagh county Museum (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFYgddSDh3k), as well as going to Armagh Planetarium and Observatory which is one different experience and a whole different place for people to visit and take in all the information it could deliver (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hawp6wGrz6w).
All these different beautiful destinations are located in county Armagh, and some even in Armagh city itself (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltxW-k5YcJg), which would attract lots of visitors to them.
It was a different kind of experience for us to visit the Navan Centre and Fort and know about this information but we definitely recommend it to those coming to Northern Ireland and want to visit new places - we want to mention that we always appreciate those touristic places which combine between the inside museums or buildings to check as well as the outdoor spaces which should be also cherished and appreciated, just like the case with Navan Centre and Fort.
Some of the best locations around Ireland / Northern Ireland and further afield.
A great tourist attraction in Armagh - or for anyone! Who needs an excuse to visit Armagh? :-) The seat of ancient Irish Kings - The red branch knights and much more!
If anyway interested in the stories of Emain Macha - then County Armagh is a must visit! Navan Centre and Fort Co Armagh; Seat of Ancient Irish Kings-Emain Macha /Navan Fort Armagh
Unleash your warrior spirit with even more myth and reality at Navan Centre & Fort after new and exciting archaeological discovery.
Armagh’s Navan Centre, which tells the story of one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, Navan Fort, is fully back for summer 2021 with a special programme of activity to celebrate its exciting 2,000-year-old history.
The popular and unique visitor attraction, located just two minutes from Ireland’s oldest city, Armagh, is currently at the centre of a new global focus after researchers uncovered new evidence of “absolutely huge” religious structures dating back to the Iron Age.
Navan Centre & Fort is a place where myth and reality meet. It is one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha. Legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales.
Living History At Navan – Have you ever wondered about the past? How did people live their lives 2,000 years ago? What were their homes like? How did they survive? What were their daily tasks? Allow our Living History characters to bring these questions to life before your eyes! This memorable and interactive experience takes place in our replica Iron Age dwelling. Sit down by the fire and witness Iron Age life come alive! Enjoy helping the Celts prepare and cook their meals and get your hands dirty in the garden and herb beds.
Prepare yourself for battle and learn the skills to survive as an ancient warrior, or sit and relax and allow your imagination to wander as the great tradition of storytelling is used to pass on some of the history of the area and the great warriors who once lived here!
The Navan Centre & Fort, located just two miles from Armagh City, is a place where myth and reality meet. As the ancient seat of Kings and the earliest capital of Ulster, there is plenty to explore.
Step back in time by 2000 years with a visit to our Iron Age dwelling (dwelling open April-September), where you will meet the Celts going about their daily lives and bringing history to life. Discover how they survived and thrived as they engage you in this highly interactive and unique experience.
After meeting real life warriors, learn more about the stories of the bravest of them all – Cú Chulainn and the Red Branch Knights. Our multilingual AV show incorporates many of the tales of the Ulster Cycle associated with the great site of Navan Fort. With archaeological evidence of the site dating back to 95BC, our experienced tour guides will accompany you to what is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most famous sites, Emain Macha (Navan Fort). Indeed, this site is considered to be what brought St. Patrick to Armagh, the Ecclesiastical Capital of Ireland.
For younger visitors, our indoor and outdoor Archaeology Discovery space is a must-see, along with an Ecology trail to truly appreciate the diversity of wildlife the grounds have to offer.
This is a real gem of the Orchard County and offers a unique experience and insight into life long ago.
Opening times
Summer Opening: 1st April - 30th September, Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 17:30. Last admission 16:00.
Winter Opening: 1st October - 31st March, Monday - Sunday 10:00 - 16:00. Last admission 15.00.
#NavanFort #NorthernIreland #LittleLionKubz
*correction - Tandragee man was not found at Emain Macha, but at Tandragee near Newry*
Huge thanks to Navan Fort Visitors Centre for allowing me to film on the premises.
We had a great time discovering their exhibits, including the Loughnashade horn and the 2,300 year old skull of a North African barbary ape.
We also learned a little about Haughey's Fort, The King's Stables and the ritual offerings made at Loughnashade.
To support this channel: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DitchWitch
Music:
'The Oriel March' performed by the Oriel Traditional Orchestra and composed by Daithí Kearney. Audio editing by Stephanie Caffrey. The recording was made for a project with the Heritage Office of Louth County Council and funded by The Creative Ireland Programme (Louth).
'Dawn of Man' by Quincas Moreiras
Stay at Killeavy Castle Estate and explore Armagh. Visit the stunning and exciting site of the ancient Navan Fort. Become a Celt for a Day or learn about the Cattle Raid of Colley. Discover the folklore stories of the area from The Curse of Macha and the Story of Emain Macha.
A place where myth and reality meets - that's exactly how people tend to describe Navan Centre and Fort which is located in county Armagh, Northern Ireland, and which is the place regarded as the seat of the ancient Irish kings.
Navan Centre and Fort is one of the most important archaeological sites in Northern Ireland, the legendery Emain Macha. Okay, there are some places - touristic locations - in Northern Ireland that have their legendary stories, some of them are believed by the public while other are not, and Navan Centre and Fort is one of those different places that carry its stories.
When it comes to this place, legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales. Emain Macha is a pre-Christian royal site that was once the capital of Ulaidh (which is east Ulster today); all these things make Navan Centre and Fort the entry to the home of the Red Branch Knights as well as some of the most famous myths and legends as well.
Navan Fort on the other hand is the centre of the Navan Complex and it takes its name from its townland which is located just outside Armagh city.
For those visiting Navan Centre and Fort, there are a couple of things which could be done and witnessed in that place, such as the exhibition looking at the background of Navan in a local and national context, the audio visual show that brings the myths and legends of the Ulster Cycle to life, the archaeology discovery room that brings archaeology alive to give people the chance to understand and know more about the history of Navan, as well as the fully guided tour which is provided to the people through the whole site.
One of the things that also highlight this place is the fact that some flint tools and pottery were found on the site and they are believed to date back between 4,000 and 2,500 BC, which is another thing that make the place much more treasury.
Even though this place is usually chosen and preferred by adults for the different things they come to discover in it, a lot of those who have been there before with their kids mentioned that it turned out to be a good choice for the kids as well and that goes back to the things it tends to offer them; dressing up in Celtic costumes, digging in the archeo-pit to uncover bones, coins, and even teeth, going through and completing the Navan Ecology Trail so that they could manage to reach the reward at the end, and also the kids got to enjoy the archaeology discovery room and play in the outdoor activity area on the massive wolfhound play piece - so your kids will get to enjoy themselves as well.
Since it is one place of importance for the Irish people, there were different archaeological researches done related to it and according to some of these archaeological investigations, it was found that there were once some buildings on the site that include a huge roundhouse-like structure which has been likened to a temple - it always feels interesting to know more about the history of those destinations which one heads to in Northern Ireland.
Since Navan Centre and Fort is located in county Armagh (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuF7CoGjOhY), there are other destinations which you could place on your list and go to check, such as going to Armagh Cathedral which is also referred to as St. Patrick's Cathedral (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LP-n79-DjXc), visiting Armagh county Museum (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFYgddSDh3k), as well as going to Armagh Planetarium and Observatory which is one different experience and a whole different place for people to visit and take in all the information it could deliver (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hawp6wGrz6w).
All these different beautiful destinations are located in county Armagh, and some even in Armagh city itself (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltxW-k5YcJg), which would attract lots of visitors to them.
It was a different kind of experience for us to visit the Navan Centre and Fort and know about this information but we definitely recommend it to those coming to Northern Ireland and want to visit new places - we want to mention that we always appreciate those touristic places which combine between the inside museums or buildings to check as well as the outdoor spaces which should be also cherished and appreciated, just like the case with Navan Centre and Fort.
Some of the best locations around Ireland / Northern Ireland and further afield.
A great tourist attraction in Armagh - or for anyone! Who needs an excuse to visit Armagh? :-) The seat of ancient Irish Kings - The red branch knights and much more!
If anyway interested in the stories of Emain Macha - then County Armagh is a must visit! Navan Centre and Fort Co Armagh; Seat of Ancient Irish Kings-Emain Macha /Navan Fort Armagh
Navan Fort (Old Irish: Emaın Macha ([ˈeṽənʲ ˈṽaxə]), Modern Irish: Eamhain Mhacha ([ˈaw̃nʲ ˈw̃axə]) is an ancient monument in County Armagh, Northern Ireland. According to tradition it was one of the great royal sites of pre-Christian Gaelic Ireland and the capital of the Ulaid. Severed heads of their enemies were said to be kept here. It is a large circular enclosure—marked by a bank and ditch—with a circular mound and the remains of a ring barrow in the middle. Archeological investigations show that there were once buildings on the site, including a huge roundhouse-like structure. The site is believed to have had a pagan ceremonial purpose. According to the Oxford Dictionary of Celtic Mythology, "the [Eamhain Mhacha] of myth and legend is a far grander and mysterious place than archeological excavation supports".
The name Eamhain Mhacha is thought to mean "the pair of Macha" or "the twins of Macha". 'Navan' is an anglicisation of the Irish An Eamhain.
Location and description
The site is a State Care Historic Monument in the townland of Navan, in Armagh City and District Council area. It is on a low hill about 1.6miles (2.6km) west of Armagh (at grid ref. area H847 452). The site consists of a circular enclosure 250metres (820ft) in diameter, marked by a bank and ditch. Oddly, the ditch is on the inside, suggesting it was not built for defence.
O'er the seven hills of Macha In an age now passed by Lived a people once forgotten Beneath an ancient sky For protection they had warriors Unsurpassed on Eireann's shore Warriors of the Craobh Rua An eternal name in lore The Ri he dwelt at Emain And Ri of Uladh's land And the people they had plenty Under Are-Ri's mighty hand Cruinneach in your aprogance And boastfulness and pride Evoking a curse Upon your own kind Curse of a woman! Due to man's boastfulness And the follyness of man Man, may yet pay due A curse I place on you A curse I place on you A weakness like a woman hear her time Once in every cycle, Ulaidh's strenght Will fail to shine, fail, fail to shine Man may yet pay due A curse I place on you A curse I place on you But in Ulaidh's hour of need Mighty lugh did pay heed He beget at son at Bru na Boinne Under a stone of great tragedy Setanta as a boy, as a boy, as a boy Cu Chulainn, as a man, as a man, as a man Standing alone against Connaught's might One against all, the eternal fight Champions they came Champions they did fall Standing alone Cu chulainn, slew them all! For the pride of Emain Macha, Emain Macha, Emain Macha For the pride of Emain Macha, Emain Macha, Emain Macha For the pride of Emain Macha, Emain Macha, Emain Macha
If so, beef was the most numerous item on the menu at Tara and Dún Ailinne while pork was found in greater numbers at Emain Macha (though beef provided a greater quantity of meat overall).
the end of all car journeys ...Mockba ... Armagh alludes to the Ard Mhacha or the high place of the goddess Macha; outside town is a place known as Emain Macha – and by the anglicised name Navan Fort, though it was a ceremonial site rather than a fortress ... .
Wood distilled into his expressive church works the essence of Ireland...Photograph. Getty ImagesPaulClements ... The terrace includes a museum, music hall, café and peaceful gardens sloping downhill with views stretching to Navan Fort (Emain Macha) ... .
Macha felt betrayed ...Named Emain Macha (meaning ‘Brooch of Macha’), the fort became the jewel of Ulster’s crown, attracting visitors from across the country to marvel at its beauty and bringing pride to the local community.
Macha felt betrayed ...Named Emain Macha (meaning ‘Brooch of Macha’), the fort became the jewel of Ulster’s crown, attracting visitors from across the country to marvel at its beauty and bringing pride to the local community.
... in Co Mayo, or Navan Fort/Emain Macha (one of the country’s most important archaeological sites), Whelan believes approaching these sacred places with the right frame of mind is what’s important.
... in Co Mayo, or Navan Fort/Emain Macha (one of the country’s most important archaeological sites), Whelan believes approaching these sacred places with the right frame of mind is what’s important.