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

04/09/2024

Looking for a new project now that autumn has set in? Ever wanted to research your family tree? To discover more about your ancestors and their lives? But not sure where to begin?

Our Introduction to Irish Genealogy course will help give you the confidence to get started. It provides a guide on planning your research, introduces you to a range of free resources, from early 20th century census results, to civil documents, land valuations and immigration records. Most importantly, it will help you to learn how to understand and interpret the information you discover.

This 7-part course can be found alongside our Introduction to Irish Archaeology course, our virtual tours with experienced archaeologists, our catalogue of recorded webinars, and much much more on the Member Courses page of your dashboard.

Or join today to start exploring the stories of Ireland! Find out more at www.tuatha.ie

03/09/2024

Dún Aonghasa • Inis Mór

This iconic fort is formed of three curving walls forming an outer, middle and inner enclosure (pictured), that terminate at the edge of a sheer 90m high cliff.

The site has a long story, with its origins in the Bronze Age, and significant change and activity all the way through into the Early Medieval period, and even up to the time of it being declared a National Monument with reconstructions in the late 19th century.

You can discover more about this incredible site, and its archaeology stretching back over three and half millennia, in our free article and visitor guide:
https://www.tuatha.ie/dun-aonghasa-dun-aengus/

02/09/2024

It's Monday, which means it's time to start exploring with Tuatha and Abarta Heritage's newsletter!

This week we’re heading to the stunning Di**le Peninsula to explore the early monastery at Reask. Make sure to check your inboxes to discover more about this fascinating site!

Every week we take a look at the archaeology, history and stories of different sites, monuments and landscapes across Ireland, exploring the stunning diversity and wealth of our wonderful heritage.

Not a part of the mailing list yet? Sign up for the free newsletter today: https://www.tuatha.ie/newsletter/

01/09/2024

The Luguaedon Stone • Inchagoill Island

This small stone pillar stands close to the early church of Teampall Phadraig. It bears one of the earliest inscriptions of Irish in the Latin Alphabet. It reads:

LIE LUGUAEDON MACCI MENUEH

THE STONE OF LUGUAEDON, SON OF MENUEH

This inscription may date to as early as the 6th century and can lay credible claim to being the oldest surviving Irish text written in the Latin alphabet.

Who Luguaedon actually was is certainly of interest. A traditional tale states that he was a nephew of St Patrick, or alternatively that he served as Patrick’s navigator through Ireland.

Inchagoill is a beautifully atmospheric place to explore, with a palpable feeling of history.

You can read more about the island in our free article and visitor guide here:
https://www.tuatha.ie/inchagoill-island/

31/08/2024

Our latest itinerary helps you to explore Cork City and discover the events and characters that have shaped this vibrant and historic centre.

On our tour through the Rebel City, we’ll discover characters that changed the city forever, like Nano Nagle, and hear stories about battles won and lost. You will encounter Golden Angels, and even get the opportunity to ring the famous Shandon Bells!

The Cork City Itinerary is available now for all Tuatha Members.

Not a member yet? Dig deeper into the stories of Ireland by joining us today.

Learn more at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/

30/08/2024

Rock of Dunamase • Laois

The ruins of the barbican gate of this once-mighty fortress now stand isolated on a path just above the remnants of a deep ditch.

The gate has a number of defensive features, such as murder holes and a slot for a portcullis.

Dig deeper into the story of the Rock of Dunamase in our free article and visitor guide at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/the-rock-of-dunamase/

29/08/2024

Jet Necklace • Derry

Part of a c.4000 year old necklace made of jet found at Cumber, in County Derry. The jet is likely to have come from North Yorkshire or Cumbria, showing trade links across the Irish Sea in the Bronze Age.

You can see this item on display in the National Museum of Ireland.

And we want to wish the National Museum of Ireland a very happy birthday! The Archaeology Museum on Kildare Street first opened its doors to the public on this day in 1890.

It remains an inspirational (and free!) place to soak in centuries of Irish culture.

28/08/2024

The Corlea Trackway • Longford

This 2km ancient routeway was discovered beautifully preserved in the bog. It was dated to c.148 BC.

A section of the trackway from Cloonbreany Townland was excavated and conserved, and is now on display in the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre.

We’re so excited to hear all about the archaeological investigations at Corlea in tomorrow’s Tuatha Talk with Professor Aidan O’Sullivan.

There are still a handful tickets left, so save your seat here:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-corlea-trackway-the-colossus-of-roads-tuatha-talk-tickets-972025673957

27/08/2024

Corcomroe Abbey • Clare

This c.13th century effigy of a bishop is set into the northern wall of the chancel of Corcomroe Abbey, in the Burren of County Clare.

The bishop is depicted in his vestments of an alb and chasuble, with an unusual mitre on his head.

Corcomroe Abbey is a feature-filled highlight of the Burren. You can dig deeper into its story in our free article and visitor guide here:
https://www.tuatha.ie/corcomroe-abbey/

27/08/2024

We're so excited for Thursday's Tuatha Talk with Professor Aidan O'Sullivan, who will be giving us unique insights and perspectives on the incredible Corlea Trackway.

If you're interested in Iron Age Ireland or the rich heritage of our bogs and wetlands do join us!

There are only a few tickets left, but you can save your seat and sign up for our Tuatha Talk webinar for free through eventbrite at the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-corlea-trackway-the-colossus-of-roads-tuatha-talk-tickets-972025673957

26/08/2024

For this week’s edition of our newsletter with Abarta Heritage we’re heading to County Mayo’s stunning Clew Bay to discover a spectacular example of rock art that offers an opportunity to glimpse into Ireland’s prehistoric past – The Boheh Stone.

Make sure you’re signed up to our FREE newsletter to learn more about this incredible site! And this week’s edition also includes a very special offer to celebrate the end of another successful Heritage Week.

You won’t want to miss it! Sign up here: https://www.tuatha.ie/newsletter/

25/08/2024

Tibradden Cairn • Dublin

The remains of a cairn on the summit of Tibradden. It was 'excavated' in 1849, revealing a cremation and Bronze Age pottery, enclosed within a small circular chamber.

With the heather in full bloom, it's a lovely time for a hike into history!

You can dig deeper into the story of Tibradden, and the tale of the High King said to be buried on its summit in our free article and visitor guide at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/tibradden-mountain/

24/08/2024

Altar Wedge Tomb • West Cork

This site was excavated in 1989 by Prof William O’Brien, which showed that the tomb had a long period of use, from the Late Neolithic / Early Bronze Age into the Iron Age. A spread of cremated remains was found, along with a pit filled with seashells and fishbone.

Thousands of years after it was first built, this ancient monument took on new spiritual meaning when it was used as a mass rock during the time of the Penal Laws

This site is just one of the marvels waiting to be discovered on your adventures through West Cork, alongside stone circles, remote castles, elegant estates and formidable forts.

Explore it all with your Tuatha Itinerary, available exclusively for members today.

Our itineraries not only help you to discover incredible sites, but also to take a slower, more thoughtful journey through Ireland's amazing landscapes.

And with a new itinerary added every month, you'll never be short of inspiration for your next adventure!

Learn more here:
https://www.tuatha.ie/ireland-road-trip-itineraries-and-trails/

23/08/2024

The Cross of Cong • Mayo

Named after the historic Mayo village where it was kept for centuries, the Cross of Cong is thought to have been made for the important diocescan centre at Tuam.

It was commissioned by the King of Connacht, Toirrdelbach Ua Conchobair in c.1123, it was intended to house a fragment of the True Cross.

The intricate decoration is influenced by the Urnes-style, a melding of Viking & Irish art.

You can see it on display in the National Museum of Ireland

22/08/2024

Encouraging responsible and sustainable tourism is a key part of our mission for Tuatha.

We're passionate about helping people to explore Ireland's incredible heritage, and helping them to play their part in preserving it for future generations.

If you're planning a visit to any of our unique landscapes, incredible sites and monuments this – or any week! – check out our handy guide for how you can protect Ireland's heritage on our website at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/responsible-and-sustainable-tourism/

21/08/2024

Jerpoint Abbey • Kilkenny

The Cistercian foundation of Jerpoint Abbey contains a wealth of medieval sculpture, including depictions of saints, religious figures, courtly ladies, and knights as well as fantastical beasts like dragons and manticores.

Learn more about this spectacular site, and what to look out for on your next visit, in our free article: https://www.tuatha.ie/jerpoint-abbey/

20/08/2024

Grange Stone Circle • Lough Gur • Limerick

This embanked stone circle measures nearly 50m in diameter. It is a near-perfect ring of 113 contiguous stones.

Archaeological investigations led by Rose Cleary have established that it was likely first constructed during the Late Neolithic Period, c.3,000–2,600BC.

19/08/2024

Check your inboxes for the latest edition of our FREE newsletter with Heritage!

This week we take a trip to Ardfert in County Kerry, to follow in the footsteps of one of Ireland's most intrepid saints, Brendan the Navigator.

Every week we take a look at the archaeology, history and stories of different sites, monuments and landscapes across Ireland, exploring the stunning diversity and wealth of our wonderful heritage.

Not a part of the mailing list yet? Sign up to our free newsletter here: https://www.tuatha.ie/newsletter/

18/08/2024

Doonfeeny Standing Stone • Mayo

The Doonfeeny Standing Stone is an enigmatic, 5m tall monument overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Is this a prehistoric monument that has undergone a process of ‘Christianisation’ generations after its original purpose was forgotten?

There is a chance it may have been first erected in the Bronze Age, like the majority of Ireland's standing stones. Later, two crosses were carved into the stone. The crosses may date as early as the 6th or 7th century, or perhaps even earlier.

Doonfeeney is just one of the many marvels that feature on our Céide Coast Itinerary that helps you to explore the incredible landscape of North Mayo.

This itinerary can be found alongside more than 30 itineraries that cover the entire island of Ireland. They are all designed to help you to get off the usual tourist trail and to really get under the skin of Ireland.

Not a member of Tuatha yet? Discover how our expertly crafted itineraries, visitor guides, courses, tours, and more can help you develop a deeper understanding of Ireland’s past. Visit our website today at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/

17/08/2024

Weekends are for Wandering!

There’s not long left before the return to school rush, but there’s still plenty of time to have a family adventure to remember!

Discover incredible places to visit with our FREE visitor guides for sites across Ireland.

Filter by location, whether it's good for children, accessibility and more, or combine your filters to find your perfect day out:
https://www.tuatha.ie/best-places-to-visit-in-ireland/

Or would you like to dig even deeper? Join Tuatha for access to 100s of articles, in-depth itineraries, monthly online lectures, and opportunities to join us on tours of some of the island’s most remarkable historic landscapes.

16/08/2024

Jadeitite Axehead • Kincraigy Donegal

This beautiful stone axe tells a story of trade, travel and value in Neolithic Ireland. Analysis revealed that it came all the way from the Italian Alps, over 1500km away from where it was found in Donegal.

Given its beauty and rarity, it was unlikely to have been used as a practical tool. Instead, it may have been a signal of status of the owner.

It's intriguing to wonder how many hands it passed through before ending up in Donegal. Possibly centuries after the stone was first hewn in the Alps.

You can see this beautiful axe on display in the National Museum of Ireland on Kildare Street.

15/08/2024

An alignment of standing stones near Cloghane on the Di**le Peninsula, West Kerry.

I wonder how many tides have flowed by in all those years since the stones were erected, some time in the Bronze Age.

14/08/2024

Baldongan Church • Dublin

Set on a hill outside Skerries, the medieval ruins of Baldongan Church command expansive views over Fingal’s fertile farmland.

The church was built in the 15th century to serve the castle that once stood in the same field.

12/08/2024

In today's edition of our free newsletter with Abarta Heritage, we visit the internationally important Viking site at Woodstown in County Waterford.

Each week we send a mail featuring Ireland's wonderful archaeology. So if you'd like to start your week with at least one nice email, you can subscribe for our free newsletter at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/newsletter/

11/08/2024

Did you know that the Kilkenny Castle that we see today was not the original fortification on the site? The first version of the castle was an earth and timber motte and bailey, built by Richard de Clare (better known as Strongbow) in c.1173. However, this was soon destroyed, as described in the Annals of Tigernach:

‘A hosting was led by Domhnall Ó Briain to attack the castle of Kilkenny and the Foreigners who dwelled therein... These tidings were heard by the Foreigners. They evacuated the castle of Kilkenny and came to Waterford. The town [Kilkenny] was breached after the Foreigners left it, and the whole district was plundered. That reduction was a grief to the Foreigners of Ireland’.

Dig deeper into the story of Kilkenny Castle in our free article and visitor guide:
https://www.tuatha.ie/kilkenny-castle/

10/08/2024

The most northerly part of the island of Ireland is a place where the stories match the spectacular scenery!

Our itinerary for the Inishowen Peninsula will help you to explore these dramatic landscapes, with ancient monasteries, medieval castles and strategic defences.

Available now for Tuatha Members!

Not a member yet? Join today for expertly designed Road Trip Itineraries & Trails that help you to explore the best of Ireland, along with articles, talks, tours and more!

Learn more at the link below
https://www.tuatha.ie/

09/08/2024

This remarkable whalebone plaque was found in the grave of a Viking woman who was buried in Kilmainham, Dublin, over a thousand years ago.

Other similar plaques have been found in Viking contexts in Scandinavia, Orkney and elsewhere. Some have been found along with glass linen smoothers. Due to that association, it has been suggested that they may have worked a little like an ironing board, ensuring that the linen clothes of high status women were well presented.

However, these elaborate examples may have been made for the burial, as a high status symbol of the craft of textile production rather than objects used everyday. Like the ornate weaver's swords that have been found in similar contexts.

You can see this plaque on display in the Viking exhibition in the National Museum of Ireland.

08/08/2024

Inishbofin • Galway

Today is the feast day of St Colmán (d.676), who founded a monastery on Inishbofin after he left Lindisfarne following the Easter Controversy.

This was a dispute about the date of Easter, between the Irish and Roman Christian traditions. The Irish side lost out at the Synod of Whitby, and Colmán left England to travel to the west coast of Ireland.

Little remains of his early foundation, though there are still hints along with the ruin of a 14th century church.

Today Inishbofin is a wonderful place to explore. To find out more about this truly beautiful and story-filled island off the wild coast of Connemara, see our free article and visitor guide at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/inishbofin-island/

08/08/2024

Tickets are flying out the door for our next ! Professor Aidan O'Sullivan joins us for a webinar on the excavations of the remarkable Iron Age trackway at Corlea, Longford.

Priority booking now open for Tuatha Members.

Not a Tuatha Member yet? Join us today to enjoy priority booking for our talks and tours, and for access to our full back catalogue of recordings of previous talks, so you can dig into the story of Ireland whenever you like!

You can learn more and sign up at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/

07/08/2024

Bective Abbey • Meath

Founded for the Cistercians in 1147 by the King of Meath, Murchad Ua Máelsechnaill, as a ‘daughter house’ of Mellifont Abbey.

The name Bective derives from the Latin ‘Beatitude Dei’, meaning the ‘Blessedness of God’.

Archaeological excavations led by Geraldine and Matthew Stout revealed the Cistercian’s innovative farming methods.

They even found that the abbey had a kitchen garden, with archaeobotanical evidence of herbs and vegetables including cabbage, mustard, dock, sorrel, radishes, pulses and elderberries.

Dig deeper into the story in our free article and visitor guide at the link below:
https://www.tuatha.ie/bective-abbey/

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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

Win two tickets to explore Skellig Michael in 2024!

We‘re so excited to be returning to Skellig Michael this summer. And we won’t be going alone! We’re offering a member of Tuatha the opportunity to WIN two tickets to visit this incredible site with us this July. Enjoy a tour of one of Ireland's most spectacular and unforgettable sites, with an experienced archaeologist as your guide, plus an overnight stay in the stunning surroundings of Portmagee. This free prize draw is open to all members of Tuatha – both monthly and annual – simply enter through the link on your Member Dashboard. Not a member of Tuatha yet? Don’t worry, there’s still time! Come and join us today to enter into this exclusive competition, plus get instant access to all our itineraries, articles, courses, talks, tours and more! Join us today at www.tuatha.ie

Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig daoibh! In honour of St Patrick’s Day, we thought we’d bring you a little mindful moment as we follow the flow of the water at St. Patrick’s Holy Well, just outside our hometown Clonmel in County Tipperary. The water emerges from springs at the head of the well, before surging down the twin flumes to the calm waters of the pond below. The water flows around the base of an early medieval cross, before passing down the outflow where they form a tributary stream that joins with the mighty River Suir and onwards to the sea. #stpatricksday2024 #stpatricksday #láféilepádraig

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

Your next adventure could be just around the corner. We'll help you discover it. Don’t just scratch the surface. Join our members who dig deeper into Ireland’s stories and landscapes. Discover more: https://www.tuatha.ie/

Discover Ireland with a membership from Tuatha

Explore 10,000 years of stories with Tuatha. From detailed articles to beautifully illustrated itineraries, events, courses, talks and more, Tuatha can help you to better understand and explore Ireland's archaeology, history and landscapes. Start your adventure into Ireland's past today and become a member of Tuatha. Find out more at www.tuatha.ie

Discover Ireland with a membership from Tuatha

Discover Ireland with Tuatha with travel tips, resources and expert information on Irish History and Archaeology

Start your journey into the past with a membership from Tuatha, an expert guide into the archaeology, history and heritage of Ireland. Join the experts from Abarta Heritage, forge new connections, and find new adventures. Become a member today at https://www.tuatha.ie/ #Ireland #irelandtravel #irishhistory

Vinegar Hill looms large over the Wexford town of Enniscorthy. The battle fought on its slopes on this day in 1798 is one of the most famous in Irish history. In our Tuatha TimeTour, we join Dr Damian Shiels, one of Ireland’s leading experts in conflict and battlefield archaeology. Join Damian to explore the battlefield behind the ballads with our Tuatha TimeTour. Learn more about this fascinating period in Irish history as well as accessing exclusive talks, courses and content as a Tuatha member. Sign up here: http://abartaheritage.ie/tuatha/

From the deep waters and wide expanse of the River Suir, the Glenary River tributary charts a course through Tipperary and Waterford. Bounded by trees and hurrying past moss-covered boulders, its clear water burbles as it collects sediment and stone, swelling and shaping with the seasons. Tune into the sound of the landscape with our immersion videos. Discover more as a Tuatha member - join here: abartaheritage.ie/tuatha/

Ireland's stories are waiting to be discovered. Tuatha is an expert guide to Ireland's archaeology, heritage and places by Abarta Heritage. Tuatha takes the road less travelled - become a member today: tuatha.ie

Join us on May 11th for our first Tuatha talk! Discover the heritage of the Great Blasket Island on a virtual voyage with Lesley Kehoe, who lived & worked on the island in 2019. Sign up for 'Blasket Bound: The Story of the Great Blasket Island' here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/tuatha-webinar-blasket-bound-the-story-of-the-great-blasket-island-tickets-325010855217?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch

Take a moment. Listen to the waves break on Clogher Strand as The Sleeping Giant slumbers out at sea. Our immersion videos let you step into the scene and experience 'the music of what happens.' Discover more as a Tuatha member. Join here: http://ow.ly/59Lv50IQ4vk