Dolmens: Symbols of Ireland

There are about 190 dolmens in Ireland, and they are our most recognizable type of megalithic monument.

Dolmens are known by many different names: Cromlechs, Giants Graves, Diarmuid and Grainne's Beds, and stone tables. Dolmens generally have an entrance feature, the 'portal,' although a blocking stone often closes this.

A most characteristic feature is a massive roof stone, weighing tons and inclined at an angle with the highest part over the entrance. Portal dolmens are known as Irish mythological stories and folklore.

Most dolmens are covered with mounds of stone, but little remains of these cairns at most sites. The impressive structures we see today are like the skeletons of the monuments.