Join us for a very special weekend! Burrenbeo trust will hold the inaugural Burren Archaeology Festival on the 21st and 22nd of June at the Burren College of Art, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare. The Burren is renowned for its rich and diverse archaeological heritage and its unique geology have preserved a wealth of archaeological evidence, providing insights into the lives and cultures of past inhabitants. We want to celebrate this very special archaeology through a weekend of talks, showcases, experimental archaeology displays and family fun
Spread out over two days the weekend will have something to interest and entertain everyone!
Saturday 10-4pm
On Saturday 21st we will hear about some of the most fascinating discoveries that have taken place in the Burren in recent times from the archaeologists who have made them. Tea and coffee on arrival and lunch are included in the ticket price! Speakers include;
Elaine Lynch; The unexpected discoveries at a hut site in Ballyganner North, Co. Clare
Ros O Maolduin; Through the Ages: Ritual and Burial in the Burren’s Wedge Tombs
Carleton Jones; Deep history in western Ireland
Michael Lynch Investigating the Mesolithic Hunter Gatherers on the North-West Coast of Co. Clare
Marion Dowd; Going Underground: Prehistoric people and caves in the Burren.
Martin Fitzpatrick; Battling the tide on Aughinish
SUNDAY 11-4pm
On Sunday 22nd at 11am there will be an archaeological tour of Rathborney Church and Graveyard by Clodagh Lynch (shuttle bus from the Burren College of Art, no parking at church itself). A specific ticket for this tour is essential.
11am – 4pm will see a wide range of activities for all those interested in archaeology, history or the Burren in general. Experimental archaeology displays will include flint knapping, wool spinning, replica artefact handling, clay pot making and bread making as well as displays of actual finds from archaeology sites. The very popular Big Dig will be there on the day (you must book your slot for this after booking child ticket, suitable for 7-13 year olds). The replica ‘Viking House’ excavation site allows children and young adults to explore the Viking world through a simulated archaeology dig.