What do Atlantis and Ireland have in common?

This article explores the fascinating connections between the myth of Atlantis and Irish history. Although Atlantis was long considered fiction, modern research suggests it may have roots in real historical events. The author points to megalithic tombs in Ireland that may correspond to descriptions of Atlantis, and to a natural disaster that may have contributed to the creation of the myth. The implications for understanding global changes and their impact on mythology and folklore are also explored.

Atlantis was long considered a purely fictional account by Plato. However, research has revealed that this story is based on historical tradition. The hypothetical empire of Atlantis is shown on the map.

As with many historical traditions, events from ancient times and places are superimposed on the most recent and familiar—in this case, Ireland. Only with the advent of modern archaeology, remote-sensing space, geographic systems, and the internet has it been possible to decipher this story.

While most Atlantis seekers focus on the lost city of Atlantis or the supposed lost Atlantean continent, this study begins with the lost empire of Atlantis. The extent of the Atlantean empire matches that of the megalithic tombs (see map). Its construction began around 5500 BC, but most of it was built during the Stone Age between 4000 and 2800 BC.

The Atlantean empire was controlled by the Atlanteans, who inhabited Atlantis, which, according to Plato, was a large island located in the Atlantic Ocean. They controlled the entire island. Look at the map—the island of Atlantis may actually be Ireland. Research indicates that the geographical description may be based on Ireland.

So where was the city of Atlantis located? The central part of Ireland underwent changes during the Megalithic period. Eventually (in the Stone Age) it included the Boyne Valley with Newgrange and Knowth, and Tara. Each of these bears some resemblance to the tale.

This isn't the whole story, of course. Much more detail is explained in a book that has been withdrawn from publication and future research. After all, Ireland wasn't Atlantis. Ireland was the basis for the myth.