The ancient ritual of witnessing the winter solstice at Slieve Gullion's passage tomb is a tradition thousands of years in the making, but this year, it's on hold. A sudden closure due to safety concerns has left many wondering when this historic site will reopen.
BBC News NI's Cormac Campbell brings us this story of a beloved landmark, a winter tradition, and the community's hopes for its restoration.
For generations, people have braved the climb up Slieve Gullion to witness a breathtaking phenomenon. On the winter solstice, the setting sun casts its rays into the chamber of Calliagh Berra's House, a prehistoric passage tomb. But this year, the Department for Communities (DfC) has intervened, citing safety issues and the need for repairs.
The closure has sparked concerns among locals and tourists alike. And this is where it gets controversial: while the DfC promises to restore access, the absence of a timeline raises fears of a prolonged closure, potentially affecting the thriving tourism industry in the area.
The winter solstice, marking the shortest day and longest night in the northern hemisphere, is a significant event. It's a precise moment, not a full day, and in 2025, it occurs at 15:03 on December 21. Local tour guide Des Murphy, who regularly leads visitors to the summit, recalls the moment he discovered the closure while guiding an American group.
"I had four couples from Colorado, one of whom had a deep connection to the area. He wanted to propose to his girlfriend in the passage tomb, but we found the site closed." The closure has been a disappointment to many, but also a reminder of the site's significance.
South Armagh has seen a surge in tourism, with visitors exploring the nearby Killeavy Castle Hotel and Slieve Gullion Forest Park before ascending the mountain. New trails have been constructed to enhance accessibility and protect the environment, attracting even more hill walkers.
Mary and James McGowan, locals from Poyntzpass, are among those who appreciate the site's allure. "We visit quite often," Mary said while enjoying the view from the tomb's exterior. "Our children loved climbing here. It's a right of passage. Our ancestors' ingenuity in creating this structure is remarkable."
Mary's sentiment reflects a common understanding: a delicate balance between preservation and accessibility. "It's been here for so long, and it needs to be preserved for future generations. I'd rather they take their time and do it right."
The DfC has confirmed that the closure is due to corroded steel beams installed in the 1960s, requiring replacement. They are working on a challenging project to replace the roof covering, given the site's remote location and access restrictions.
Despite the closure, the solstice tradition continues. A group is expected to gather outside the tomb's entrance on Sunday afternoon, awaiting the sunset and the solstice's magic. But will this ancient ritual be accessible again soon? The community awaits further updates, and the debate continues.
