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Audio Guide National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
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Oro - The Gold of Ireland
Ór – Ireland's Gold is the National Museum of Ireland's standout exhibition devoted to prehistoric Irish goldwork, spanning 2200 to 500 BC. The collection showcases jewellery and objects crafted from gold that reveal remarkable technical and artistic sophistication long before the Romans reached the British Isles. This is what to see if you want to understand the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient Ireland's metalworkers.
Kingship and Sacrifice (Bog Bodies)
Kingship & Sacrifice is the permanent exhibition at the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology dedicated to bog bodies: human remains naturally preserved in Irish peatlands and recovered in remarkable condition. The display is both compelling and unsettling, offering the rare opportunity to examine authentic Iron Age human remains that have survived thousands of years. What to see here are some of the most extraordinary archaeological finds from Ireland's ancient past, preserved by the unique chemistry of bogland.
Medieval Ireland (Power, Work and Prayer)
The Medieval Ireland exhibition at Dublin museum explores three distinct galleries organised around power, work and prayer—reflecting the tripartite structure of medieval Irish society: nobility, commoners and clergy. Located on the upper floor, it presents a comprehensive picture of medieval Irish life through artefacts linked to governance, craftsmanship and religious devotion. What to see ranges from objects of authority to everyday tools and religious items that illuminate daily existence in this historical period.
Viking Exhibition
The Viking Exhibition is a dedicated section within the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology that explores the Viking presence in Ireland following their arrival on the island in 795 AD. The exhibition features reconstructions and artefacts illustrating how these seafarers lived during their time here. Located on the upper floor of the building, it provides a compelling insight into this significant period of Irish history and the impact of Norse settlement on the island.
Antiguo Egipto
The museum's Ancient Egypt collection holds around 3,000 objects spanning from the predynastic period through to the Greco-Roman and Coptic eras, making it one of Ireland's most substantial Egyptian collections. Located on the first floor in a modest corner gallery, the display features deep burgundy walls and carefully directed lighting focused on the most significant pieces. This creates an atmospheric setting, though the subdued lighting can make the explanatory panels difficult to read at times.
Ancient Cypriot Pottery and Glass
The Ancient Cyprus Pottery and Glass collection is one of the thematic exhibitions at the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. Housed here are artefacts from the ancient Cypriot world, demonstrating the museum's impressive international scope beyond Irish archaeology. This focused display showcases the breadth of the institution's holdings, bringing a particular window onto Mediterranean antiquity to Dublin visitors.
Central Rotunda with Cupola and Zodiacal Mosaic Floor
The central rotunda stands as the architectural heart of the museum, a domed space reaching approximately 20 metres in height that strikes visitors immediately upon entry. Its floor features a magnificent mosaic depicting all twelve signs of the zodiac, transforming the pavement into a work of art in its own right. What to see here is both the soaring ceiling above and the intricate craftsmanship underfoot, making this the perfect introduction to Dublin's collection.
Ardagh Chalice
The Ardagh Chalice is an exceptional 8th-century Irish metalwork piece, now housed in the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin. Regarded as one of Ireland's finest medieval treasures, it was discovered in 1868 when a young man was digging for potatoes at Reerasta Rath, near Ardagh in County Limerick. The chalice was unearthed alongside other artefacts forming a remarkable hoard. Its intricate craftsmanship and historical significance make it essential viewing for anyone interested in early medieval Celtic art.
Tara Brooch
The Tara Brooch is one of the finest pieces in the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology, widely regarded as one of Ireland's most accomplished examples of early medieval metalwork. This intricate brooch showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient Irish goldsmiths, with its elaborate design and technical precision serving as a testament to the artistic sophistication achieved during this period. A must-see for anyone interested in early Irish metalworking and Celtic artefacts.
- 1.Oro - The Gold of Ireland
- 2.Kingship and Sacrifice (Bog Bodies)
- 3.Medieval Ireland (Power, Work and Prayer)
- 4.Viking Exhibition
- 5.Antiguo Egipto
- 6.Ancient Cypriot Pottery and Glass
- 7.Central Rotunda with Cupola and Zodiacal Mosaic Floor
- 8.Ardagh Chalice
- 9.Tara Brooch
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