Structural repair works have been progressed at a long-closed prehistoric cairn, built into the fabric of the Slieve Gullion area. And, it won’t be long before the public will once again be invited to visit.
Constructed at 1,894 feet – or 577 metres – the structure – believed to date as far back as 3,000BC – is known locally as ‘Calliagh Berra’s House’.
Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in south Armagh, the Slieve Gullion ‘South Cairn’ is dramatically sited and visible from miles away.
According to Love Heritage NI, the earliest documented investigation dates to 1789, when the chamber was opened by locals searching for the ‘Old Lady’ or ‘Witch’ – Cailleach Bhéara – who was believed to have lived there, but only a few human bones were found.
However, a description provided by the Department for Communities advised the “lintel” roof had partially collapsed.
Back in October 2025, Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty asked the Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons whether there was any merit in restoring or repairing the roof of the cairn.
Minister Lyons advised his Department was “currently assessing options for the repair or replacement of the modern roof covering.”
Now, Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Aoife Finnegan and her colleague Slieve Gullion Councillor Mickey Larkin have welcomed progress on vital repair works at the South Cairn on Slieve Gullion, with the historic passage tomb set to reopen very soon.
Aoife Finnegan said: “This is fantastic news for South Armagh and for everyone who treasures Slieve Gullion and the unique history and heritage of this area.
“The South Cairn has stood on the summit of Slieve Gullion for thousands of years. It is part of who we are – our landscape, our history, our mythology and our identity.
“When access to the Cairn was closed because of safety concerns, local people were understandably worried that this incredibly important monument could remain inaccessible for a prolonged period.
“I raised those concerns directly and pressed the Department for Communities for clarity on the repairs, the funding required and, most importantly, a clear pathway towards reopening.
“I am delighted that work is now progressing and that we are moving closer to the South Cairn being accessible once again.
“I want to commend all within our community who continue to protect and promote our rich heritage and I also want to thank everyone involved in carrying out these specialist works on what is an incredibly important and sensitive historic site.
“Slieve Gullion belongs at the heart of the story of South Armagh, and we will continue working to ensure our unique heritage receives the recognition, protection and investment it deserves.”
Echoing his colleagues’ sentiments, Cllr Mickey Larkin said the Cairn was part of the area’s heritage, history and is worth protecting.
“This is brilliant news for the local community and for the many walkers and visitors who make the journey to the summit of Slieve Gullion.
“The South Cairn has endured for thousands of years and it is our responsibility to protect it and pass it on to the generations who come after us.
“We look forward to seeing these vital works completed and people once again being able to enter Cailleach Beara’s House and experience one of the great treasures of South Armagh.”
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