

This is probably the most beautiful view I experienced in Ireland. Located at the northern shore of County Mayo, Ceide Fields is an archeological site where a civilization once thrived thousands of years ago. Evidence of dwellings and stone walls enclosing what they think were fields for grazing animals were found by a farmer deep in the bog. That tiny pyramid in the distance is the interpretative center. Oddly, for a good twenty minutes I was the only person walking around on the boardwalk – everyone stayed in the building to watch a movie and look at the displays. They were too lazy for this, the best part by far. Just beyond view are high sea cliffs, and behind where I was standing rolling fields with sheep grazing. It was absolutely spectacular.

Being a bit claustrophobic, I was worried about going into this tomb or temple, they aren’t sure which. So I made sure I was the last one on the tour in so I could hurry out if the panic started. But I was fine, despite the very narrow entrance and low ceiling. Inside is a chamber where, once per year on the winter solstice, the sun is positioned perfectly to bathe the dark interior in light.