Aughnacliffe Portal Tombs

Aughnacliffe Portal Tomb (or Aughnacliffe Dolmen) is one of four portal tombs in County Longford. The county's other portal tombs are at Cleenrath, Birrinagh in Moyne, and Melkagh in Drumlish.

Structure of Aughnacliffe Portal Tomb

Located in a shallow valley, among the rolling hills of north Longford, Aughnacliffe Portal Tomb is an impressive megalithic monument.

It is unusual in that it has two capstones (also called roofstones). Similar portal tombs and dolmens typically have only one. The smaller capstone measures 1.7m by 2.20m and is 1.7m thick. The higher, larger capstone is far more substantial, measuring 3.2m by 2.3m. It is a testament to the engineering skills of the time. 

The capstones are supported by smaller stones at the base. The tallest of these stones was the portal stones in the front. Up to 2m high, these stones would have formed an impressive entrance to the tomb. One of these portal stones, however, has been lost.

Internally, a small space, measuring 2m by .6m, would have functioned as the burial chamber.

Mythological Connection

Along with the nearby portal tomb at Cleenrath, Aughnacliffe Portal Tomb has a connection with the ancient legend of Diarmaid and Gráinne. It is believed to be one of their resting spots on their flight from Gráinne’s fiancé, the legendary hero Fionn MacCumhaill.

Accessing Aughnacliffe Portal Tomb

The portal tomb at Aughnacliffe is the most easily accessible to the public. You can get to it following an informal pathway starting in Aughnacliffe village. It is on private farmland, so be aware that there may be animals and livestock on the land, and ensure that gates are closed behind you.