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This is the first month of the summer cycle, and starts at the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. The Woodpecker represents the kingdom of the south in the wheel of year - Water. The woodpecker is no longer found in Ireland, and does not really play a part in European folk tradition. However, it is an important Native American totem and is associated with drumming. The summer solstice has alwys been an important festival in Ireland. The layout and alignment of the ancient stone cairns in County Sligo prove that the solstice was observed by ancient people. Today, bonfires are lit at several sites around Sligo on June 23rd, the festival of St. John the Baptist. The designs about the bird show the 28 day cycle of the month. Many of the designs at the neolithic mound of Knowth seem to illustrate the different phases and cycles of the moon. Elements: Water. Colour: Rose |
