Watch Sacred Sites: Ireland

Sacred Sites: Ireland is a documentary film that takes the audience on a breathtaking journey across Ireland's most sacred and significant locations. The movie is directed by Ruan Magan, a renowned filmmaker known for his work on other documentaries such as The Vikings Uncovered and Mummies Alive. The film delves deep into the spiritual history of Ireland, exploring its pagan and Christian roots. The stunning landscapes of Ireland are also captured in all their glory in this visually captivating movie. Locations such as Newgrange, Skellig Michael, and Glendalough are explored in great detail, and viewers are treated to awe-inspiring aerial footage of the Emerald Isle.

The documentary is narrated by Irish actress Lorraine Keane, who injects warmth and personality into the film. The soundtrack, composed by renowned Irish musician Colm Mac Con Iomaire, further enhances the viewing experience, taking the audience on an immersive journey through time and space.

The film is structured around the ancient Celtic calendar and the eight festivals of the year, known as the Wheel of the Year. Each season is given its own segment, from the winter solstice to the pagan festival of Samhain. Along the way, the audience learns about Ireland's pre-Christian past, its mythology and legends, and how the early Christian church built upon these foundations.

One of the highlights of the film is its exploration of Newgrange, a prehistoric monument that predates Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza. We learn about the astronomical alignments of this ancient passage tomb, and how the winter solstice sun fills the chamber with light for only a few precious minutes each year. The film also explores the intricate carvings and artwork that adorn the exterior of the site, and considers their religious and mythological significance.

The documentary also explores the role of the Christian church in Ireland, with a focus on Saint Patrick and Saint Brigid. We learn about the myths and legends associated with these two figures, and how they played a crucial role in spreading the Christian faith across the country. The audience is also treated to a tour of the medieval monastic settlement at Glendalough, which was founded by Saint Kevin in the 6th century.

The film's exploration of Skellig Michael, a remote island off the west coast of Ireland, is also a standout segment. This island was home to a thriving monastic community from the 6th to the 12th century, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The documentary takes viewers on a heart-stopping climb up the steep stairs that lead to the monastery, which was carved out of the rockface. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, and the film captures the sense of awe and wonder that visitors to the site experience.

Overall, Sacred Sites: Ireland is a beautifully crafted documentary that will appeal to anyone interested in Ireland's history, mythology, and spirituality. Its stunning visuals, engaging narration, and immersive soundtrack make it an unforgettable viewing experience. The film is a testament to the power of Ireland's ancient sites, and their continued ability to inspire wonder and awe in visitors from around the world.

Sacred Sites: Ireland is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 51 minutes.