The megalithic monuments in Brú na Bóinne have been the subject of archaeological investigations for over a century. These have been instigated for a variety of reasons ranging from targeted research to improving visitor access, interpretation for presentation and to facilitate conservation work.

Modern archaeological investigation of megalithic monuments in Brú na Bóinne commenced in 1960 when the small passage tomb at Townleyhall was excavated. Shortly afterwards, the lengthy excavation campaigns at Newgrange and Knowth commenced under the direction of M.J. O’Kelly and G. Eogan respectively. Although initiated to improve visitor access and presentation, these excavations evolved into major research projects, the results of which continue to inform our understanding of the societies which built these great tombs and of the continuity of usage of the sites through to modern times. Please view the publications section for more information.

For more information on M.J. O’ Kelly, please visit the educational resources section.

Excavations carried out by P.D. Sweetman in the 1970s and 1980s examined several henge-type monuments at Monknewtown and Newgrange and also in the 1980s, a small-scale excavation was carried out at the back of the mound at Newgrange by A. Lynch in order to facilitate stabilisation works at the cairn. An earthwork complex at Knowth, downslope from the main passage tomb, was investigated by G. Stout between  2002-2004. This has been interpreted as an early medieval ‘secular’ cemetery.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, extensive excavations were carried out in the hinterland of Brú na Bóinne, largely as a result of the major infrastructural schemes which were initiated at that time. The results of these investigations will contribute greatly to our understanding of the wider context of the Brú na Bóinne monuments.

A Research Framework has been drawn up for the Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Property. This has identified the major gaps in our knowledge and will help steer future research in directions which should increase our understanding of this special place.