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Clare Island Archaeological Walk


  • Roonagh Pier Aghany, Co. Mayo (map)

Clare Island Archaeological Walk

Guided tour led by Michael Gibbons, Walking Ireland


Walk/Tour

Date: Wednesday October 2nd, 2024 

Time: 10am, for 10.35am ferry / Return 4.30pm ferry.

Ferry departs from Roonagh Pier


Archaeological Field Trip to Clare Island led by Michael Gibbons, exploring the hidden ancient landscapes and vibrant seascapes of Grace O’Malley home, where she traded and raided in Medieval Ireland. 

The Clare Island Surveys Old (Praeger 1909-11) and New (Meyers 2002/7) trace the history of human occupation and its impact on the landscape of this small remote western island.  Clare Island’s history is complex and dates from pre-historic times, it’s two peaks (Knockmore 462 and Knockneveen 233) provide the mountainous background to an archaeological landscape where megalithic tombs lie within a Bronze Age landscape compete with dozens of Fulacht Fia (ancient cooking sties) and a very important Early Monastic site and Medieval castle overlooking the harbour complete the archaeological pictures.  Grace O’Malley (Granuaile) was born here, she was part of the maritime world where trading with Europe was common place and raiding with neighbours and passing ships was also common place.

Cost including Ferry is €30

Bring your walking boots and to wear appropriate clothing for the outdoors!


Later Event: 2 October
Lough Corrib 471