12 June 2006
ARCHAEOLOGY FOR EVERYONE
The Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) has coordinated archaeological related events throughout this weekend.
Patricia McCall of EHS, is encouraging people of all ages to get out and about and discover Northern Ireland's archaeology.
She said: "Have you ever wanted to see what happens at an archaeological dig? Do you want to observe the constructing of an early Christian house? See demonstrations of ancient weaponry and crafts? Or perhaps take a tour of an ancient battle site? Archaeology Days will provide these opportunities and many are free events!
"We want to provide everyone, young an old, with the chance to take part in a unique insight into Northern Ireland's archaeology.
"Our richly diverse heritage is reflected in the wide variety of events which will take place over the Archaeology Days weekend.
"So why not experience some of Northern Ireland's archaeology this summer solstice?
"I encourage everybody to take part in an event near them".
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. Free programmes of events are available from libraries and Tourist Information Centres and on the website www.ehsni.gov.uk
2. This is the third year that Northern Ireland has provided archaeological events throughout the country which is supported by the Council of British Archaeology (CBA) who sponsor a National Archaeology Day this year on 15 - 23 July in England and Wales. Scotland hosts its Archaeology Day in September.
3. Young Archaeologists Club (YAC) has 72 branches in the UK and there are currently 2 here - North Down Heritage Centre (Bangor) and Down County Museum (Downpatrick). Membership provides 8 - 16 year olds with an opportunity to find out about local archaeology and get involved in archaeological projects from excavation work to cooking a medieval meal. Membership also offers free entry to many UK sites and monuments, in Bellaghy Bawn, Carrickfergus and Dunluce Castles are participating monuments. More information can be found on www.britarch.ac.uk
4. The following are some of the events taking place:
Belfast: Make your own prehistoric pottery, Ulster Museum. Tours of Edenderry village.
Co. Antrim: Lisburn Castle Gardens, Tours of the town and walls and at Carrickfergus and also a fencing competition at Carrickfergus Castle.
Co. Armagh: Tour of historic monuments in South Armagh, Navan Centre and Fort.
Co. Down: Tour of early medieval churches in Down.
Co. Fermanagh: Storytelling on Devinish Island. Guided tours of Tully and Monea Castles.
Co. Londonderry: Tours of the 17th-century plantation bawn. Tours of Historic Sites of the North West.
Co. Tyrone: An Creagan - Bronze age Symposium.
5. Further news media information contact DOE Press Office 028 9054 0003.
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