About Mythical Ireland
Mythical Ireland was established in March of the year 2000 by journalist, author and researcher Anthony Murphy. The website represents a journey into the ancient past, and attempts to cast new light on a sometimes obscure period of the early history of Ireland. This exploration takes place through many different disciplines, which include, but are not limited to, archaeology, anthropology, astronomy, mythology, spirituality and geodesy.
The great 5,000-year-old megalithic passage-tombs of Brú na Bóinne in the Boyne Valley represent the zenith of a phase of Irish prehistory that began with the introduction of farming around 6,000 years ago. Newgrange, Knowth and
Dowth are huge, enigmatic structures, that are the finest examples of a type of monument that is found scattered throughout Ireland, and of which there may be as many as 1,500 examples. None can compare to these three, though, in terms of size, grandeur, and their illustrious prominence in the ancient myths.
Anthony’s exploration encompasses many different facets of these great monuments. He invites you to step into this ancient world, and through the various media of words, photography and video/film, to enjoy a unique glimpse a past that seems very much alive.
Ancient Ireland
Ancient Sites
Enter the ‘Ancient Sites’ section of this blog for a fascinating and wide-ranging exploration of the megalithic and sacred sites of Ireland. Find out all about the Stone Age and prehistoric ruins and learn more about the possible functions and alignments of these sites. Visit the great temples of Brú na Bóinne, the Hill of Tara, the ancient cairns of Loughcrew among many others.
Myths & Legends
Explore the ancient myths, legends and folklore of Ireland and their meaning. Read the epic Táin Bó Cuailnge, or the place-name myths in the Dindshenchas. Learn about how the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Milesians came to Ireland and how the early texts describe various invasions of prehistoric Éire. Hear about Fionn and the Fianna, and discover how some myths might contain information about astronomy and the stars.
Astronomy & the Sky
There is no doubt that the ancient megalith builders had a substantial knowledge of the movements of the sun, moon, planets and stars through the heavens. Learn more about just how complex and impressive this knowledge was. There is evidence that the people of the Neolithic knew about the 19-year Metonic cycle of the moon, as well as being able to predict eclipses.
A Journey Into Ireland's Ancient Past
Mythical Ireland Blog
Two of three logboats I found by drone in the river Boyne are new discoveries!
The Underwater Archaeology Unit of the National Monuments Service has told Anthony Murphy that two of the three dugout boats he spotted in the river Boyne at Drogheda are new discoveries.
Third logboat spotted by drone in the Boyne river at Drogheda
I spotted a third logboat in the river Boyne at Drogheda this morning using my drone. It is positioned near the northern bank of the Boyne some 270m west of the Bridge of Peace.
The logboats of the river Boyne in Drogheda - an expert assessment
Following my apparent discovery of a logboat in the river Boyne in Drogheda, it has since emerged that this boat was previously reported to the National Monuments Service in 2020. However, there is a second boat nearby, as confirmed by logboats specialist, archaeologist Dr. Niall Gregory.
Spotted by drone: an ancient logboat in the river Boyne at Drogheda
Anthony Murphy speaks about his latest 'find' using his drone - what appears to be an ancient logboat or dugout canoe in the bed of the river Boyne in Drogheda.
First booklet in new monograph series goes to print
Anthony Murphy discusses the first in a new series of publications - a monograph about the story of Finn Mac Cumhaill and the Salmon of Knowledge.
The miracle of the Return to Segais
Author Anthony Murphy talks about the miracle of the Atlantic salmon of the Boyne, and how seeing them return from their incredible journey inspired his new book, Return to Segais.