NAVAN, a borough, post, and fair town of Ireland, in the county of Meath and province of Leinster; situated about 23 miles north-west of Dublin, on the river Boyne. It consists of two chief streets, which intersect each other at right angles. — The Tholsel, or town-house, is a handsome stone-building. This place was formerly in great repute, and walled in by Hugh de Lacy. An abbey for regular canons, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, was erected here; but whether antecedent to the end of the 12th century is not certain: about that period, however, it was either founded or re-edified by Joceline de Angulo or Nangle. In the burial-ground are the remains of many ancient tombs, with figures in alto relievo; and the present barrack for one troop of horse is built on the site of the abbey. — Navan sends two members to parliament; patronage in the Preston family. Here are four fairs held.