The Grange Stone Circle (Lios na Gráinsí) is a mysterious relic from the Bronze Age in County Limerick. Stroll around Ireland’s largest standing stone circle and try to picture the ancient rituals that were once performed here. Admire the workmanship of the large stone circle’s design. Say hello to the cows that today graze near the ancient stone circle, oblivious to its historic importance.
As you approach the Grange Stone Circle, be amazed at its circumference. Count the 113 ancient stones of differing sizes that have been arranged in line with tree trunks to form a large ring with a diameter of 150 feet (45 metres). Archaeological excavations have also found packed clay and smashed Neolithic beaker pottery throughout the circle’s surface, as well as a posthole in the centre. For this reason, it is thought that the Grange Stone Circle was used in special ritualistic ceremonies.
Visit during the summer solstice and you might get a clearer idea of how the Grange Stone Circle was used by its Bronze Age creators. The rising midsummer sun aligns with the stone circle and shines directly down into its centre. It is thought that rituals were performed in the circle during this annual celebration.
Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of the stone circle and the lush green lawns throughout the site. Relax under the trees or check out the cows that wander around the pastures. Find additional historic sites north of the Grange Stone Circle, including a smaller secondary circle and a large monolithic stone.
The Grange Stone Circle is near Lough Gur on the roadside, 2.5 miles (4 kilometres) north of Bruff in County Limerick. The site is less than a 30-minute drive from the city of Limerick. Reach the area by public bus if you’re not driving. The Grange Stone Circle is free to visit, but the site’s caretaker accepts and appreciates donations.
