This four week program provides a practical introduction to all aspects of the archaeological process including excavation, survey, post-excavation and dissemination. Our program is delivered at the Ferrycarrig ringwork castle, within the confines of the Irish National Heritage Park (INHP) in Wexford, southeast Ireland. Students will actively participate in uncovering the ringwork’s history, while also learning how to critically assess the importance of this crucial site within its wider landscape and historical context.
Built in 1169 AD/CE, Ferrycarrig is crucial to our understanding of the earliest stages of the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland. Probably one of the first permanent Norman fortifications to be built in Ireland, the site comprised a ringwork castle placed on a natural promontory overlooking the River Slaney and Wexford town. Today, the bank and ditch are all that remain above the ground but archaeological excavations in the 1980’s uncovered significant evidence of the fortifications preserved below ground. Today archaeological excavations at the site continue to piece together the earliest days of the Norman conquest of Ireland, at this most important site. Staying with local families in homestay accommodation, this program also offers a deeply enriching cultural immersion, guaranteeing students a truly memorable experience.
Ferrycarrig is located within the Irish National Heritage Park, an open-air museum which recreates the key stages in Ireland’s past, providing a stunning backdrop to the archaeological research site. Students will be exposed not only to archaeological investigation at the site but also to the many and myriad ways by which the public is presented, view and interpret the archaeological record.
Registration does not guarantee acceptance to the program, which is contingent on a reference check. Once we have contacted your referee, and are happy with their reference, we will contact you with an official acceptance and payment link for a minimum payment of a €500 deposit.
Cancellations: This program is run with our partners the Institute for Field Research (IFR). For their cancellation policy (including for Covid-19) please consult their website.
Course Details BROCHURE
Course Dates: July 10 – August 6, 2022
Where: Wexford and the Irish National Heritage Park
Enrolment Status: Closed
Including all meals, accommodation, tuition, instruction, equipment, t-shirt, field trips, and a copy of our Carrig book
Course Type: Field Archaeology
Instructors: Dr Denis Shine, Dr Stephen Mandal
Accredited Program
The accredited option provided through the Institute for Field Research is now open, apply below.
Academic Credit: 6 semester credit units (equivalent to 9 quarter units)
Cost: US$4,840
Application Deadline: April 15th 2022
Payment Deadline: April 15th 2022
