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Explore Ireland's archaeology, sites and stories with the experts from Abarta Heritage.

22/01/2025

The Lissava Dolmen • Tipperary

You can find this portal tomb hidden away in Scaragh Wood, near Cahir in South Tipperary.

It likely dates to the earlier part of the Neolithic period, making it around 5,500 years old.

22/01/2025

We have added extra tickets to our upcoming Tuatha Talk due to the massive demand!

Join us for a dive into the Mesolithic with Prof. Graeme Warren for a webinar exploring Ireland’s hunter-gatherer past.

This event filled up incredibly fast first time round, so do make sure you reserve your free ticket as soon as possible to avoid disappointment!

Find out more about this online lecture and reserve your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/tuatha-talk-mesolithic-ireland-tickets-1137879461099

21/01/2025

Tech Midchúarta • The Banqueting Hall • The Hill of Tara

Known as Tech Midchúarta – the House of the Mead Circuit – this site has featured prominently in the legends of Tara, often as the setting of great feasts and gatherings.

Rather than being an actual banqueting hall, it seems more likely that this site was a processional routeway used on important occasions like ritual or inauguration ceremonies. It may be a Neolithic cursus, as it is aligned with the passage tomb known as the Mound of the Hostages on the summit of the Hill.

Find out more about this and other key features you can find on the Hill of Tara in our free article: https://www.tuatha.ie/the-hill-of-tara/

20/01/2025

In today's edition of our free newsletter with Abarta Heritage, we take a trip to the beautiful county of Sligo to visit an important early monastery, where one of Ireland's literary legends rests under bare Ben Bulben's head.

If you're not on our mailing list yet but would like to start every week with a little bit of Ireland in your inbox, sign up for free at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/newsletter/

19/01/2025

Cathair Dhúin Irghuis • Caherdoonerish Fort • The Burren

Set high on a ridge at Black Head, the stone fort of Caherdoonerish commands breathtaking views over Galway Bay and as far as the Aran Islands.

Like the majority of stone forts in the region, Caherdoonerish is likely to date to the early medieval period.

The name Caherdoonerish derives from the Irish Cathair Dhúin Irghuis, which translates to ‘the fort of Irghuis’. Irghuis was a chief of the legendary Firbolg.

This area abounds in folklore, and the headland is said to be one of the haunts of the banshee Bronach the Sorrowful. As you stand within the crumbling walls of this atmospheric site, it is easy to imagine that the Otherworld is truly close at hand.

18/01/2025

Kilbegly Mill • Roscommon • c.7th-9th century

When we think of Ireland's ancient monasteries like Clonmacnoise, it's easy to see them as places of spirituality and Christian belief, but their influence and lands stretched far beyond their sacred precincts.

Clonmacnoise once had a wide hinterland surrounding it. This hinterland was well farmed by the lay community, providing the monastery with food, fuel, and building materials.

One of the most significant discoveries that shed light on this aspect of the monastery was Kilbegly Mill, a site excavated by myself (Neil Jackman) and Cathy Moore in advance of construction of the M6 Motorway in 2006.

Under a thin layer of peat in a hollow at the base of a field, we discovered a wooden mill, with its flume, millpond, undercroft, tailrace and more, all nearly perfectly preserved under the peat. We dated the site to between 650–850.

This mill was built next to a small early church site, historically linked as a satellite site of Clonmacnoise. Another example of the influence and scale of Ireland's early monasteries.

If you'd like to discover more about the complexity and influence of Clonmacnoise in our article at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/clonmacnoise-monastery/

17/01/2025

The Dowris Hoard • Offaly • 900-500 BCE

This remarkable hoard was discovered by two men digging potato beds in an area of reclaimed bogland in County Offaly in the 1820s.

It is one of the largest assemblages of Bronze Age artefacts ever found in Ireland, with more than 200 pieces originally recovered. It consists of 44 spearheads, 43 axes, 26 horns, 5 swords, a riveted cauldron, three buckets, chisels, knives, and perhaps most enigmatically, 48 crotals – rattle-like instruments in the shape of a bull’s testicle.

The area the hoard was found in was close to a shallow lake. There are a number of votive deposits associated with water during the Bronze Age, suggesting a clear cultural practice.

The hoard came into the possession of William Parsons, 3rd Earl of Rosse, and TD Cooke. The latter sold his collection of Irish antiquities to the British Museum in 1854. Today, this remarkable hoard remains separated. The majority of the items are in the National Museum of Ireland, with the remaining 70 or so in the British Museum.

Wouldn't it be wonderful to see the hoard reunited in Ireland once again in the future?

16/01/2025

Farranmacbride Court Tomb • Glencolmcille • Donegal

The remains of this c.5,500 year old Neolithic court tomb are incorporated within the medieval pilgrimage landscape of the Turas Glencolmcille in County Donegal.

There are few places in Ireland that can compare with the sheer density of important monuments as Glencolmcille. This beautiful valley has been a place to live and a spiritual sanctuary for millennia.

You can explore Glencolmcille with our exclusive map itinerary, available for all members of our Tuatha.

15/01/2025

Kilree • Kilkenny

The placename Kilree likely derives from the Irish Cill Rí meaning ‘the Church of the King’.

According to a story in the wonderful National Folklore Collection, the particular king referenced in the name is Niall Caille, who is said to have invaded Ossory in the year 851.

The King fell from his horse and drowned crossing the river at a fording point on the King’s River, near to where the mill stands today.

The tale tells that the high cross at Kilree marks the King’s final resting place, and both the name of this monastery and the King’s River both derive from that incident.

The high cross is a fine example of the Ossory Series of high crosses. It likely dates to the 10th century, though the intricate geometric design may be a reference to the older tradition of decorative metalwork of the 8th century, with the large round features representing enamel studs on metal shrines, book covers and crosses.

14/01/2025

Derreenataggart Stone Circle • West Cork

Located on the south-eastern slope of Miskish Mountain, the stone circle at Derreenataggart is another interesting example of the Bronze Age ritual landscape of Ireland’s south-west.

Visiting a fascinating ancient monument like this is always a moo-ving experience!

This is just one of a wealth of wonderful sites to explore along West Cork's Beara Peninsula. It features on our downloadable & printable itinerary, exclusively available for Tuatha Members.

Not a member yet? Discover how we can help you to explore the best of Ireland at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/

13/01/2025

Looking to discover more about Ireland's incredible archaeology? Sign up for the free Monument Monday newsletter by Tuatha and Abarta Heritage!

Today, we take a trip to County Mayo to explore the wonderfully atmospheric ruin of a medieval friary.

We feature one of our favourite monuments to visit around Ireland each week.

So if you'd like to learn more about Ireland's history and archaeology, or if you're looking for inspiration for places to visit, do sign up for our free newsletter here:
https://www.tuatha.ie/newsletter/

12/01/2025

The ‘Tara Brooch’ • Meath • c.8th century

This stunning example of the craft and artistry of early medieval Ireland dates to around the 8th century. The brooch once fastened the cloak of an elite member of early Irish society, in all likelihood, a King or Queen, or perhaps a leading member of the church.

The brooch is exquisitely made, it is only 9cm in diameter but bears an intricate series of designs that showcase the skill of the early Irish jeweller, goldsmith and glassworker. The range of techniques and the mastery of ex*****on is simply breathtaking when you see it close up in person.

The brooch was found in 1850 by a child playing on the beach at Bettystown, County Meath. It was sold to a watchmaker in Drogheda, who sold it in turn to the Dublin businessman George Waterhouse. In a famous case of rebranding, he renamed it the ‘Tara Brooch’ and displayed it at the Great Exhibition in London in 1851.

The brooch became a famous symbol of the Gaelic Revival and a national symbol. Maude Gonne's, Inghinidhe na hÉireann (Daughters of Ireland), adopted it for their badge.

Today, you can see this wonderful object on display in the Treasury of the National Museum of Ireland.

11/01/2025

Are you looking to get out to stretch the legs after the recent cold snap?

The Anne Valley of County Waterford combines lovely scenery with fascinating monuments, like the ruin of Dunhill Castle.

It is one of the places we feature in our article 10 Winter Walks in Ireland.

Covering historical hikes in Munster, Leinster, Ulster, and Connacht.

But please check local conditions before travel! ❄️
https://www.tuatha.ie/10-winter-walks-in-ireland/

10/01/2025

Knockdrum Fort • West Cork • c.8–10th century

Overlooking the coast of West Cork, Knockdrum Stone Fort is a fine example of a stone cashel that dates to the early medieval period.

Excavations by Boyle Somerville in the 1930s revealed the remains of house foundations and a souterrain.

Souterrains are relatively common features within high-status enclosures like this one. They are subterranean stone lined passages that may have served both as a temporary refuge and as a cool and dark place to store food, particularly dairy products that were an important part of the cattle-based economy of early medieval Ireland.

Knockdrum is just one of the highlights on our West Cork Wonders Itinerary! Exclusively available for Tuatha Members.

09/01/2025

Neolithic Portal Tomb • Donegal

This is part of a series of portal tombs (or dolmens) at Malin More. Taken together with other monuments nearby, like the court tombs at Cloghanmore and Farranmacbride, it is a sign of the importance of this landscape to Ireland's first farmers.

08/01/2025

We can't wait to get started with the new calendar of events for Tuatha Members for 2025!

We start with a historical hike to the Hellfire Club with Neil Jackman.

And Prof. Graeme Warren joins us for our first webinar of 2025, as he discusses the Mesolithic Period in Ireland.

Priority booking is now open for all Tuatha Members, you can find links to register on the Events Page of your member dashboard.

If you're not a member yet, join us and meet some new faces as you explore some very old places!

Learn more and join here:
https://www.tuatha.ie/

07/01/2025

The Kilshannig Cross Slab • c.7th–8th Century

Located in a historic graveyard at the end of the beautiful Maharees Peninsula in County Kerry, this cross-slab is the only visible trace left of an early monastery that was associated with St Senach.

06/01/2025

The Adoration of the Magi

Today is the Feast of the Epiphany, the traditional day that marks the vist of the Three Kings (or Magi) to the infant Jesus, when they brought with them gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

This depiction on Muiredach’s Cross at Monasterboice commemorates the moment. Mary is shown holding the baby Jesus, with the star that the Magi followed above the infant’s head, while the three Magi present their gifts.

Muiredach's Cross is arguably Ireland's finest high cross, and dates to the early 10th century.

You can learn more about Monasterboice and its incredible high crosses here:
https://www.tuatha.ie/monasterboice-high-crosses/

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Go beyond the map this year! Explore Ireland's incredible archaeology and historic landscapes, and enjoy story-filled adventures. Members of Tuatha have access to unrivalled expert research and resources – plus the opportunity to join us for talks and tours! - giving you a backstage pass to Ireland's past. Find out more at tuatha.ie

Are you suffering with a slight dose of the fear about heading back into the office tomorrow? Take a deep breath, relax, and immerse yourself in the beautiful sights and sounds of the Irish landscape for a moment. This mini-compilation features a few mindful moments, from the sun setting over Clogher Beach on the Dingle Peninsula, to the flow of water at St Patrick’s Holy Well in Tipperary, to the birdlife of the Great Saltee Island and the torrent of Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park. Our members can enjoy the sights and sounds of Ireland with our immersive videos, as well as online courses, talks and tours, and exclusive itineraries and articles. So, if you'd like to develop a deeper connection with Ireland this year, do come and join us. You can find out more at tuatha.ie . . . #IrishHistoryAndHeritage #IrishArchaeology #Mindfulness #ireland #soundscapes

Still on the lookout for that perfect stocking filler? Grab a 30-day gift certificate to Tuatha for just €25, or gift someone you love a whole year of adventure with an annual membership to Tuatha! Both give full access to all of our catalogue of articles & itineraries to help them explore, courses and lectures to excite their curiosity and wonderful days out on our tours, plus much more! Visit our store through the link below to learn more about Tuatha's gift memberships, and make Ireland's Past your Present this Christmas. https://store.tuatha.ie/ #irishgifts

What makes Tuatha’s itineraries different? We really help you to get under the skin of a landscape. We take a more thoughtful approach, helping you to dwell longer in a landscape. From the epic sites to true hidden gems. With a Tuatha itinerary, you can explore off the beaten track with confidence and experience adventures to remember. If you have someone in your life that loves getting out and about, discovering Ireland’s incredible archaeology and heritage, do consider a gift membership to Tuatha. Prices start from just €25: https://store.tuatha.ie/ #IrishGifts

Make Ireland's past your present this Christmas. A Tuatha Membership is the perfect gift for lifelong learners, eager explorers, and lovers of Irish archaeology, history and heritage. Find out more and order your gift membership: https://store.tuatha.ie/

Knowth Passage Tomb Complex

Set in the famous bend of the River Boyne, not far from the other great tombs at Newgrange and Dowth, Knowth is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most significant archaeological monuments. A Neolithic passage tomb complex, home to perhaps the greatest concentration of megalithic art in Europe. It has been a place of significance for millennia. Discover more about the complex story of this monument at our next Tuatha Talk with archaeologist Dr Kerri Cleary on Wednesday the 20th of November. This very special lecture will be the first in our series to be held both in-person and online, thanks to The Royal Irish Academy who will be hosting this event in the beautiful surroundings of their Dawson Street Academy House. Find out more about the event and book your FREE online or in-person tickets through the link: https://www.ria.ie/events/knowth-a-tuatha-talk-with-dr-kerri-cleary-and-the-royal-irish-academy/

A moment of peace at St Patrick's Well, Clonmel.

In case you need it, here is a little moment of peace for your timeline. This is St Patrick's Holy Well near our hometown of Clonmel, Tipperary. The clear waters of the well are reputed to have curative properties for sore eyes and headaches. It's an atmospheric, special place. If you'd like to know more about the history of St Patrick's Well, or how to get there, we have a free article here: https://www.tuatha.ie/st-patricks-well/

Early Medieval Ireland

Ireland's early medieval period was a pivotal era in Irish history, and we are excited to announce our latest online course that helps you to dig deeper into the story! In our brand new course, Dr Sharon Greene leads us through Ireland's early medieval period. The course is broken into a series of classes that you can take in your own time. Each focused on a different key aspect, such as settlement, society law and politics, everyday life, and the house and home. The impact of the Vikings, and more. The course comes with a downloadable pdf workbook with reading lists and recommendations of further resources so you can dig even deeper into the story. Our Early Medieval Ireland Course is now available to all Tuatha Members! Not a member yet? Join today for full access to this course, along with our other courses on Genealogy and an Introduction to Irish Archaeology, and our full back catalogue of webinars from leading experts in Irish archaeology and heritage. You'll also have full access to all our itineraries, articles, and more, so visit the link below to join today to start your journey into Ireland's past: https://www.tuatha.ie/

In need of a little timeline cleanse? Here's a moment from Poll an Eas in County Leitrim. It's a lovely time of year to go exploring Ireland!

If your dad loves digging into Irish archaeology, history and heritage, then he'll love Tuatha! A gift membership will help him to delve deeper into the stories of Ireland, with detailed articles, online courses and talks by leading experts. Enjoy family days out together as you explore with our itineraries. With opportunities to join us on our regular programme of talks and tours. With monthly and annual memberships available, and instant access to your digital voucher, there's no need to get in a flap this Father's Day. Make Ireland's Past your Present with Tuatha! Find our monthly and annual gift vouchers here: https://store.tuatha.ie/

Turn your next Irish road trip into an epic adventure with a Tuatha Itinerary! Our expertly crafted itineraries feature a blend of famous historic highlights with a swathe of hidden gems that will help you to get off the beaten track. The itineraries are accompanied by a map created by our illustrator Sara Nylund. And they are available whenever you need them. You can use them digitally or download and print before you set out on your journey. With a new itinerary added every month, you’ll always have somewhere new to explore! Find out more about our itineraries in the link below: https://www.tuatha.ie/ireland-road-trip-itineraries-and-trails/ #discoverireland #exploreireland

2023 has been quite an adventure! We want to thank everyone, especially all our wonderful members and all who follow us for all of your support throughout the year. We already have some exciting plans for 2024 — our first Tuatha Talk in January will be with Dr Rebecca Boyd on Everyday Life in Ireland's Viking Age Towns, and our first exclusive member tour will be of medieval Trim with Dr Michael Potterton later in the month. Other tours include the prehistory of the Boyne Valley with Professor Muiris O'Sullivan, and we're hopeful of a tour of the Saltee Islands when the puffins are home. And of course we'll have lots more articles and itineraries to come! Thanks again for making the year so special, and we're looking forward to more adventures with you! Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2024. #HappyNewYear

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Knowth Passage Tomb Complex

A moment of peace at St Patrick's Well, Clonmel.

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