Megaliths' Exhibition Opens At Down Museum

A large crowd attended the the opening of new exhibition, Megaliths of Northern Ireland, which was launched at Down County Museum (Wednesday 9th March.) The exhibition is the culmination of a year long project between the museum and the Downpatrick Young Archaeologists’ Club, which has involved young members of the club investigating megaliths in the local landscape and learning more about their significance. The project is part of the museum’s community history initiative, which has been funded by the PEACE III programme involving twenty community groups from Down District, North Down and Ards borough councils. These groups have taken part in various activities which have been designed to promote greater understanding of local culture and traditions, along with enhancing awareness of cultural identity and diversity in the region. [caption id="attachment_21212" align="alignleft" width="400" caption="Some of the Young Archaeologists at Down County Museum with Down Council Chairman Councillor eamonn O'Neill, Museum Director Mike King, Environment Permanent Secretary. Leo O'Reilly, and Harry Welsh, archaeologist."][/caption] The exhibition explains the significance of some of Northern Ireland’s most outstanding megalithic remains, from Ballynoe Stone Circle to the Giant’s Ring and includes details about how they were constructed. A selection of artefacts from megalithic sites is also on display within the exhibition. A booklet on megaliths has also been produced by The Young Archaeologists, which tells the story of their project and lists all kinds of amazing facts about them. The booklet will be distributed free of charge to local schools and groups. The PEACE III grant has enabled the museum to translate the exhibition into Polish and it is hoped that members of the local Polish community will enjoy visiting the exhibition. The display will travel to museums in Derry, Ballymena and Bangor over the next year. Megaliths of Northern Ireland will be on display at Down County Museum until 19th June 2011. Admission to the exhibition is free. ‘Tomb Travel’ Also Launched At Museum [caption id="attachment_21214" align="alignright" width="400" caption="Conor McComb from Castlewellan with Deirdre McAllister and Sophie and Carla Cooper from Downpatrick pictured at the launch of the Megaliths' Exhibition at Down County Museum."][/caption] Tomb Travel, a new book highlighting Northern Ireland’s top megalithic tombs, has also been launched by the  Department of the Environment Permanent Secretary Leo O’Reilly. Speaking at the launch event, Mr O’Reilly said,  “Tomb Travel uncovers stories of many of our key megalithic tombs which are a significant part of our cultural heritage and something of a hidden treasure and a portal to our past. “The book not only presents the public with a beginner’s guide to megalithic tombs but also gives details of how to go out and visit 25 of the best sites in State Care throughout Northern Ireland. “Tourism is a growing and key market in Northern Ireland and whilst we must protect and preserve our ancient heritage we must also seek to realise the economic and tourism opportunities that lie within it. This book and the companion exhibition, contain fascinating stories and stunning photography that are a great advertisement for Northern Ireland – they are a step in the right direction.“ The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has published the book. NIEA Archaeologist Paul Logue said, “The book provides an accessible county by county guide to Northern Ireland’s top megalithic tombs along with fantastic photography that will inspire young and old alike to visit. “Tomb travelling is for everyone who enjoys the fresh air, spectacular views and awe-inspiring glimpses into our past and this book is the perfect companion to take with your friends and family for wonderful days out.” The book is written by archaeologist Harry Welsh and is available to buy now from TSO Ireland at a cost of £10, or can be purchased at the Down Museum shop.]]>