Newgrange Passage Tomb, Co Meath

So famous as to appear too obvious a choice, Newgrange is one of the finest passage-tombs in Western Europe and a miracle of engineering. The large letter-box-like roof box above and behind the entrance allows the sun's rays to penetrate in good conditions at the heart of winter during the Solstice. A visit leaves one wondering at the genius of these ancients and humbled by their respect for their dead.

The Rock of Cashel, Co Tipperary

The Rock of Cashel, rising out of the surrounding plain, is Ireland's most dramatic monument. A fourth-century fortification of the Kings of Munster, it was later Brian Boru's capital. Today it is a cluster of buildings including Cormac's Chapel, probably the first Romanesque church in Ireland. The entire complex, dominated by the 13th-century cathedral with its collection of fine tombs, is a celebration of decorated stone work.

High Cross at Moone, Co Kildare

Ireland's High Crosses appear to have been created in two phases, the ninth and 12th centuries. The Moone Cross, one of the most beautiful, and carved from granite, dates from the earlier period. It stands in the shelter of a roofless small church in a peaceful, romantic setting.

Grianan of Aileach Stone Fort, Co Donegal

Everything you ever needed to sense or imagine about Ireland's warrior past may be experienced by standing on this fine Iron Age fort. Strategically sited overlooking Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly, its tall stone circular walls enclose a large area and the walls are about 13 feet thick.

Carrowkeel Passage-Tomb Cemetery, Co Sligo

Admirers of the Loughcrew Passage-Tomb Burial ground in north Co Meath will want to explore this diverse, Late Stone Age cemetery straddling the Bricklieve mountains overlooking Lough Arrow. A surreal atmosphere haunts the hilltop, with its many cairns offering variations of the classic Irish passage-tomb style grave. Some of the tombs were used as late as 1500 BC.