Proleek Megalithic Tombs

Located to the south-west of the Cooley Mountains near the lower slopes of Black Mountain, Proleek portal tomb is one of the best-known and most iconic megalithic tombs in Ireland. The tomb comprises three upright stones supporting an impressively large capstone delicately poised more than 2m above the ground and reputed to weigh as much as 40 tonnes. The tomb is classified as a portal tomb on account of the two large, upright stones forming a portal or entrance, which faces north-west. In its original condition the tomb may have been surrounded or partially surrounded by a stone mound or cairn, of which there is now no trace. Constructed over 5,000 years ago in the Neolithic period, it is likely that the tomb contains burials and cremated remains of members of the earliest farming communities on the Cooley Peninsula. In more recent times the Proleek tomb was known locally as the ‘Giant’s Load’, allegedly on account of the similarity of its silhouette to a man stooped over from carrying a large load on his back. The small stones lying on the capstone relate to a local tradition that if you successfully land three stones on top you will be married before the end of the year! Nearby are the remains of another megalithic tomb classified as a wedge tomb. Dating from the late Neolithic/early Bronze Age period, c. 4000 years ago, the Proleek wedge tomb is one of only two known examples in Co. Louth. Wedge tombs are so called on account of their characteristic shape; in plan the long burial chamber or gallery narrows from front to rear, while in profile the tomb slopes downwards from front to rear. In its original state the tomb would have been covered with a series of roofstones. Only one roofstone now remains, covering the eastern end of the tomb. The tomb is aligned roughly west-east, with a large stone closing the entrance at the west. There are indications that originally there may have been a stone facade at the western end, flanking either side of the entrance, but today only one stone survives. It is likely that the tomb would have been covered or partially covered with a mound of stones, but there is no trace of this today. Please note that many of these monuments may be on private land and may not be publicly accessible. When setting out to visit monuments please ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Access to monuments without Visitor Services may be across uneven ground which may not be suitable for everyone and, in particular, wheelchair users.