The gods of Newgrange in Irish literature & Romano-Celtic tradition

Abstract

This paper examines the proposition put forward by Professor M.J. and Claire O'Kelly that medieval Irish literature provides us with evidence of gods who may have been worshipped by those woho built Neolithic Newgrange. After examination of the literature, and the etymology of the various names used, it is agreed that the gods described may indeed originate in the prehistoric period but contrary to the O'Kellys' views, the late Iron Age/Roman period is put forward as the most likely dating range. It is further argued that the existence of such gods should be linked to the Roman coins and jewellery found outside Newgrange. It is suggested that the cultural context of these Roman finds is best explained by Roman worship outside megalithic tombs in southern England and the possibility of a late prehistoric invasion of the Boyne valley region from Britain is put forward.