Creevagh Wedge Tomb is a significant prehistoric site located in County Clare, Ireland. This type of tomb belongs to the wedge tomb category, a common megalithic structure in Ireland and parts of western Europe. Dating to the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age (approximately 2500–2000 BC), it offers insights into the burial practices and societal structures of the time.
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Architectural Features
The tomb’s design follows the wedge tomb style, characterized by a narrowing chamber from the entrance to the rear. Its construction uses large flat stones to create a central burial chamber, often covered by a mound or cairn. The Creevagh tomb includes two portal stones and a capstone, forming the entrance. The structure’s wider end typically faces the southwest, aligning with specific solar events.
Function and Use
Wedge tombs like Creevagh served as communal burial sites. Archaeologists have recovered human remains, pottery, and tools, indicating their ritualistic and funerary roles. These finds suggest a complex society where burial rites were significant.
Historical Context
Creevagh Wedge Tomb reflects cultural transitions during the late Neolithic to early Bronze Age. This era saw the development of metalworking and changes in agricultural practices. Communities began constructing more elaborate burial sites, highlighting their evolving social and spiritual systems.
Preservation and Importance
Creevagh Wedge Tomb remains in good condition, allowing archaeologists to study its construction and use. Efforts to preserve such sites are essential for understanding Ireland’s prehistoric past. The tomb is part of a broader megalithic tradition that underscores the ingenuity of ancient communities.
Conclusion
Creevagh Wedge Tomb stands as a vital link to Ireland’s prehistoric heritage. Its structure and artifacts provide valuable evidence of life, death, and cultural practices thousands of years ago.
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