How thousands of years of farming formed the Burren landscape and how careful farming actively protects those monuments during modern land improvements is the focus of an upcoming festival.

Taking place in Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare, the Burren Archaeology Festival will celebrate the Burren’s rich and fascinating archaeological heritage across two days in June.

Visitors to the event can enjoy an engaging programme of expert talks, live demonstrations, family-friendly events, and interactive displays, all designed to reveal the stories of the past and explore the deep history hidden beneath the Burren’s iconic limestone terrain. 

On Saturday, June 20, there will be the opportunity to hear from some of Ireland’s leading archaeologists as they share insights into recent and significant discoveries in the Burren.

Featured speakers include Karl Brady, Shane Delaney, Jake Justice, Maggie Ronayne, and Dr Ann Lynch, all bringing a wealth of experience and expertise on the ancient communities that once inhabited this remarkable landscape. 

One of the highlights of the festival is expected to be Dr Lynch's talk on her excavation at Poulnabrone dolmen, which is the earliest evidence of  a farming community in Ireland. 

Family-friendly experiences

On Sunday, June 21, the focus will shift to  experimental  archaeology and interactive experiences for all ages. 

Highlights will include: castle tours by Dick Cronin; a archaeology themed LEGO  workshop with Jessica Farrell, brick artist and LEGO certified professional; replica artefact display and handling; a wool spinning demonstration; coil pot building; a blacksmith demonstration; and an osteology stall

There will also be stone tool-making workshops with the Irish Heritage School for children aged 5-12 , for which booking is essential as well as the BIG DIG, a simulated excavation experience for children aged 5–12, with booking also essential.

Áine Bird, CEO of Burrenbeo Trust said: "The Burren holds an extraordinary record of human history.

"This festival is an opportunity to uncover the stories embedded in the landscape and encourage people to reconnect with this unique heritage. 

"We’re delighted to bring communities together in such a special setting to explore and engage with the Burren’s rich archaeological past," she said.

Run by the Burrenbeo Trust and supported by the National Monuments Service and Burren Acres Aran, the Burren Archaeology Festival seeks to "spark curiosity, deepen appreciation, and strengthen connections to the ancient cultures that shaped this remarkable landscape".

From dedicated archaeology enthusiasts to families in search of a memorable weekend experience, the festival aims to offer something to captivate visitors of all ages and interests, Áine said.