Poulnabrone Dolmen

About

Poulnabrone Dolmen, located on a high karst limestone pavement in the Burren, County Clare, is a striking Neolithic portal tomb that dates back to around 3500‑3200 BC. The monument consists of three towering portal stones supporting a massive capstone slab, forming a narrow chamber that tapers to the east. It is widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most iconic prehistoric sites, and its distinctive stone skeleton is visible from the surrounding landscape. The site is freely accessible to the public and has become a popular destination for visitors seeking a glimpse of Ireland’s ancient past. The surrounding Burren region offers dramatic scenery, with limestone pavements, cliffs, and unique flora, making the dolmen an excellent stop for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. A modern car park opened nearby in 2007 to accommodate the approximately 200,000 annual visitors, ensuring convenient access to the monument. The dolmen’s historical significance lies in its construction technique and the artifacts found during 1986‑1988 excavations, which included human remains and pottery fragments. The monument’s preservation has been carefully managed by the National Monuments Service, and it remains a protected national monument. Visitors typically spend about 30–45 minutes exploring the dolmen and taking in the surrounding Burren vistas, making it a suitable stop on a larger tour of County Clare’s archaeological treasures.

Highlights

• Stone Skeleton
• Capstone
• Three Standing Portal Stones
• Largest Known Irish Portal Tomb

Good to Know

Pros & Cons

What people are saying