·ï»Ë²ÊƱ

Humans

Ireland's iconic megalithic tombs may have had an unexpected function

Tombs that are scattered across Ireland may have helped bring ancient societies together for feasting and remembering their ancestors

By Christa Lesté-Lasserre

5 May 2025

The megalithic graveyard of Carrowkeel in Sligo, Ireland

The megalithic graveyard of Carrowkeel in Sligo, Ireland

scenicireland.com/Christopher Hill Photographic/Alamy

Ireland’s megalithic tombs might not have been burial grounds for elite dynasties, as some thought, but rather places of community bonding.

In 2020, researchers found and evidence of incest in a man buried in an elaborate sepulchre, leading them to conclude that the tombs held members of a hereditary ruling class, somewhat akin to Egyptian pharaohs.

Like many archaeologists, …

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with ·ï»Ë²ÊƱ events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, today with our introductory offers

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop