One of Ireland's most venerated prehistoric treasures, the Hill of Tara, has been classed among the world's 100 most-endangered heritage sites, having been added to the "crisis list" of the World Monument Fund.The area, threatened by plans to build a motorway, is rich in archaeological sites, including tombs and ring forts. It was described by a poet as "probably the most consecrated spot in Ireland".
The bitter dispute over the plan is a clash between two aspects of Ireland, the commercially driven push for development and the older Irish instinct to preserve relics.
It started as political disagreement, went on to legal challenges and, most recently, scuffles as protesters tried to prevent heavy machinery reaching the route of the motorway.
The authorities, having surmounted all legal obstacles, are determined to press ahead with the road, which they say is essential to serve the prodigious expansion of Dublin.
The New York-based WMF said Tara was at risk because "cities and suburbs are spreading unchecked". Its president, Bonnie Burnham, added: "Man is indeed the enemy. Just as we caused the damage in the first place, we have the power to repair it by taking our responsibility as caretakers of the world's cultural heritage seriously."
Tara is in Co Meath, north-west of Dublin. A hugely expanded commuter belt around the capital has caused much-increased traffic flows, with drivers complaining they spend hours in jams every day.
There is general agreement that the present road system is inadequate, with several towns suffering from chronic congestion.
Objectors say an alternative route should be found. They say the Hill of Tara is the centre of a unique archaeological landscape.
The WMF is credited with saving hundreds of sites all over the world. Being on their list means that the area will be the subject of "a global call to action on behalf of sites in need of immediate intervention, bringing them to international attention and helping to raise funds for their rescue".
The significance of Tara as a place of political and religious importance dates from around 4000BC.
The Ard Ri or high kings of Ireland were crowned here for centuries and it is the central location of countlesslegends.
One group of historians said: "The Hill of Tara constitutes the heart and soul of Ireland. Its very name invokes the spirit and mystique of our people. This is a massive national and international tragedy."
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