Knowth

Knowth is a Neolithic passage tomb and one of the principal monuments at Brú na Boinne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in County Meath, Ireland. It dates to the early to middle Neolithic period, with construction traditionally placed around 3200 to 2500 BCE, making it contemporary with Newgrange and Dowth. Knowth is recognized for both its architecture and its extensive megalithic art.

The monument consists of a large circular earth-and-stone mound ringed by a decorated kerb. Inside the mound are two principal tombs, Knowth East and Knowth West, connected by a central passage. Unlike some other tombs, Knowth contains multiple chambers and passages within a single mound, reflecting a complex funerary practice. A notable feature is the outer ring of kerbstones, many of which are carved with intricate relief designs, including spirals, lozenges, and zig-zag patterns. The carvings at Knowth represent one of the most substantial repositories of megalithic art in western Europe and reveal a long tradition of stone carving and symbolic imagery.

Knowth has been the subject of extensive archaeological study since the 19th century, with later investigations in the 20th century contributing to the understanding of its layout, dating, and art. The site is part of Brú na Boinne, along with Dowth and Newgrange, and is valued for its contribution to knowledge of Neolithic society, ritual, and communal activity in prehistoric Ireland.

Today, Knowth is a major tourist location with a visitor centre and guided access to the mound, providing interpretation of its architecture and carved stones while protecting the preservation of the site.