Strategicplan2014 2017

Strategic Plan2014–2017

The Discovery Programme

Cover: View to the north from Cairn T, Loughcrew, Co. Meath

The Discovery Programme63 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2

t. +353 (0) 1 639 3039 f. +353 (0) 1 639 3710e. [email protected]

www.discoveryprogramme.ie

Cover: View to the north from Cairn T, Loughcrew, Co. Meath




We are committed to completing outstanding projects, luckily a small number, and have them published in different formats and media platforms in the next three years. We are very keen on supporting tourism bodies in improving the quality of information available to the public relating to the cultural heritage. We also intend to create an outreach programme with schools, local communities and national curriculum development units. This outreach element is in alignment with the current Strategic Plan of the Heritage Council.

In order to expand our research capacity we are also actively seeking external funding in addition to the annual state grant. We already possess an internationally recognised expertise in technical innovation in archaeological research and, as a result, have several important EU co-funded projects underway. We intend to build on this type of funding along with philanthropic donations for Discovery Programme activities in the future.

I commend this Strategic Plan to all who are interested in the future of Irish archaeological research, and pay tribute to all those who work in the Discovery Programme, be they administrative, research or technology staff. Finally, I would like to thank the members of the Directorate and Council for their continuing support.

Professor Terence Barry

The Discovery Programme is now in its twenty-second year and is well-established as a national centre for archaeological research. This new Strategic Plan 2014−2017 is a timely document for everyone who is interested in Irish archaeology to peruse as it charts the future direction of the Discovery Programme. In it we attempt to bring the spotlight to bear on our major research themes both from the past and, more importantly, for the future.

Our current projects include Late Iron Age and ‘Roman’ Ireland, which is a multidisciplinary investigation of life and death in Ireland in the Late Iron Age as well as Ireland’s place on the frontier of the Roman world. Monastic Ireland is a major research and tourism project on the archaeology, architecture and history of the monasteries and friaries of medieval Ireland. The project, which involves collaboration between the Discovery Programme, Trinity College Dublin and University College Cork has just been awarded a major grant from the Irish Research Council. Finally, there is also an ongoing palaeoenvironmental research project.

Our major theme during the timeframe of this plan will be Discovering Ireland’s Ancient Peoples and Landscapes. This will entail the Discovery Programme leading research and digital projects that focus on Ireland’s peoples and landscapes starting from the first peoples who settled here in around 8000BC.

One of our great strengths as an organisation is our proven ability to employ advanced multidisciplinary research projects in Irish archaeology as well as in related disciplines. We are also well positioned to work with many other heritage, cultural and educational organisations, especially within the broader context of a European framework.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

The garden, 63 Merrion Square, Dublin

The garden, 63 Merrion Square, Dublin

CONTENTS PAGES

1. Mission and Vision

2. About The Discovery Programme

3. Our Theme for 2014−2017: Discovering Ireland’s ancient peoples and landscapes

4. Seven key tasks 2014−2017

5. Current Projects

6. Goals, Timescale and Milestones

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

01–02

03–04

05–06

07–22

23–26

27–38

39–40

MISSION AND VISION

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Winter sunrise, Loughcrew, Co. Meath

MISSION AND VISION

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1.

Winter sunrise, Loughcrew, Co. Meath 02

MISSION VISION

» Perform a central role in Irish archaeological research

» Identify and address specific research questions through core Discovery Programme projects and collaborative projects

» Develop and promote the use of applied technologies in Irish archaeology

» Promote collaboration with national cultural institutions, national agencies and higher education institutions

» Foster interdisciplinary and innovative research between the humanities, sciences and technology in the context of archaeology

» Educate the wider public about Ireland’s past and its cultural heritage to enable communities to become custodians of their heritage

The Discovery Programme’s mission is to explore Ireland’s past and its cultural heritage by conducting advanced research in Irish archaeology and related disciplines and by disseminating its findings widely to the global community.

ABOUT The Discovery Programme

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2.

The Discovery Programme is an all-island centre for archaeological and heritage research. It was established in May 1991 by the then Taoiseach, Charles J. Haughey. In 1996 it became an independent company – the Discovery Programme Ltd. – funded through the Heritage Council. It tenders for EU funds and as a registered charity welcomes philanthropic donations for specific projects. It is governed by a Council and Directorate, the members of which are drawn mainly from the archaeological profession in Ireland and abroad. The Discovery Programme is a limited company (Company Reg. No. 8243328M) and is a registered charity (Reg. No. Chy 12549).

Laser scanning, Monasterboice, Co. Louth

ABOUT The Discovery Programme

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2.

The Discovery Programme is an all-island centre for archaeological and heritage research. It was established in May 1991 by the then Taoiseach, Charles J. Haughey. In 1996 it became an independent company – the Discovery Programme Ltd. – funded through the Heritage Council. It tenders for EU funds and as a registered charity welcomes philanthropic donations for specific projects. It is governed by a Council and Directorate, the members of which are drawn mainly from the archaeological profession in Ireland and abroad. The Discovery Programme is a limited company (Company Reg. No. 8243328M) and is a registered charity (Reg. No. Chy 12549).

Laser scanning, Monasterboice, Co. Louth

CURRENT COUNCIL AND DIRECTORATE

MANAGEMENT

The Directorate

Professor Terence Barry (Chair)Mr Cormac BourkeMr Ian DoyleDr Stuart JeffreyMr Conleth ManningDr Rachel MossDr Elizabeth O’BrienDr Tomás Ó CarragáinDr Graeme Warren

The Council

Professor Terence BarryMs Teresa BolgerDr Michelle ComberDr Ann LynchDr Eileen MurphyDr Máirín Ní CheallaighDr John O’KeefeDr Greer RamseyDr Colin RynneDr Rob SandsMr Robert Shaw

Dr Edel Bhreathnach Dr Jacqueline Cahill Wilson Mr Anthony CornsDr Ingelise StuijtsMs Kathleen O’Sullivan

Affiliation

Trinity College DublinUlster Archaeology Society The Heritage CouncilThe Glasgow School of ArtDept of Arts, Heritage and the GaeltachtTrinity College DublinThe Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland University College CorkUniversity College Dublin

Representing

Chair of the Discovery ProgrammeInstitute of Archaeologists of IrelandNational University of Ireland GalwayDept of Arts, Heritage and the GaeltachtQueen’s University BelfastThe Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland Dept of the Environment for Northern IrelandMuseums and Galleries of Northern IrelandUniversity College CorkUniversity College DublinDiscovery Programme Staff

CEO & Director, Monastic Ireland ProjectDirector, LIARI ProjectTechnology ManagerDirector, Paleoenvironmental ProjectsCompany Administrator

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OUR THEMEFor 2014−2017:DISCOVERING IRELAND’S ANCIENT PEOPLES AND LANDSCAPES

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05Dún Chonchúir from the air, Inishmaan, Co. Galway




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OUR THEME FOR 2014-2017

To accomplish the work of the next three years, the Discovery Programme will strive to complete seven key tasks:

1. To develop the Discovery Programme into a national research centre dedicated to advanced multidisciplinary studies in Irish archaeology and related disciplines in the humanities, science and technology

2. To embark on an overview of the current state of research in Irish archaeology from the first settlements (8000BC) to contemporary archaeology with a view to identifying potential research themes for future projects

3. To work with various cultural, educational and heritage institutions to coordinate and share Irish archaeological, historical and topographical data within the context of a European framework

4. To support tourism bodies to improve the quality of information available to the public regarding

Ireland’s cultural heritage

5. To create an outreach programme with schools, local communities and national curriculum development units

6. To complete outstanding Discovery Programme projects and publish them in various formats and media

7. To seek external funding in addition to the annual state grant for Discovery Programme initiatives,

projects and publications

Ireland’s archaeology and cultural heritage are integral to our ever-changing national identity. Every townland and parish in Ireland is made up of a tapestry of archaeological monuments, landscapes, settlements and place names. The people of these townlands and parishes retain the island’s history in their personal names, surnames and oral memories. Throughout the world, libraries and museums hold artefacts, books, manuscripts and maps of archaeological and historic significance to Ireland’s past. Since the seventeenth century scholars have delved into the story of Ireland’s people and their landscapes and despite the efforts of so many scholars, countless topics remain unexplored and hidden away.

In adopting the overall theme of Discovering Ireland’s Ancient Peoples and Landscapes the Discovery Programme’s role for the next three years will be to lead research and digital projects that focus on Ireland’s peoples and landscapes beginning with the first inhabitants who settled here around ten thousand years ago. In addition, we will aim to work with other organisations and communities to advance the concept that the people inhabiting this landscape today are the custodians of a valuable cultural heritage.

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OUR THEME FOR 2014-2017

To accomplish the work of the next three years, the Discovery Programme will strive to complete seven key tasks:

1. To develop the Discovery Programme into a national research centre dedicated to advanced multidisciplinary studies in Irish archaeology and related disciplines in the humanities, science and technology

2. To embark on an overview of the current state of research in Irish archaeology from the first settlements (8000BC) to contemporary archaeology with a view to identifying potential research themes for future projects

3. To work with various cultural, educational and heritage institutions to coordinate and share Irish archaeological, historical and topographical data within the context of a European framework

4. To support tourism bodies to improve the quality of information available to the public regarding Ireland’s cultural heritage

5. To create an outreach programme with schools, local communities and national curriculum development units

6. To complete outstanding Discovery Programme projects and publish them in various formats and media

7. To seek external funding in addition to the annual state grant for Discovery Programme initiatives, projects and publications

Ireland’s archaeology and cultural heritage are integral to our ever-changing national identity. Every townland and parish in Ireland is made up of a tapestry of archaeological monuments, landscapes, settlements and place names. The people of these townlands and parishes retain the island’s history in their personal names, surnames and oral memories. Throughout the world, libraries and museums hold artefacts, books, manuscripts and maps of archaeological and historic significance to Ireland’s past. Since the seventeenth century scholars have delved into the story of Ireland’s people and their landscapes and despite the efforts of so many scholars, countless topics remain unexplored and hidden away.

In adopting the overall theme of Discovering Ireland’s Ancient Peoples and Landscapes the Discovery Programme’s role for the next three years will be to lead research and digital projects that focus on Ireland’s peoples and landscapes beginning with the first inhabitants who settled here around ten thousand years ago. In addition, we will aim to work with other organisations and communities to advance the concept that the people inhabiting this landscape today are the custodians of a valuable cultural heritage.

SEVEN KEY TASKS 2014−2017

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07Laser scanning Poulnabrone dolmen, Co. Clare 08

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movement of people, food production and diet, climate change), chronological horizons, local and regional studies, and landscape or monument specific surveys.

How will we transform the Discovery Programme into a vibrant national research centre?

Vibrant research depends on the existence of a scholarly community engaging in lively debate. The Discovery Programme is well placed both institutionally and geographically to draw scholars together from the whole island and elsewhere to consider specific issues. We can play a role in supporting the analytical training of graduates and introduce them to the concept of multidisciplinary studies. In an era when it is often difficult to find time to focus exclusively on an intellectual discourse, the Discovery Programme can offer that space and time by organising collaborative conferences, seminars and workshops, training modules and theme-centred focus groups.

The strength of the Discovery Programme since its establishment has stemmed from its capacity to tackle large-scale research projects, including conducting research excavations and developing applied and multidisciplinary research. We have built an expertise in new and innovative techniques and methods within archaeological research. In the field of remote sensing and applied technology the Discovery Programme is regarded as a leader both nationally and internationally. This has been proven by our success in participating in transEuropean networks and in gaining considerable support funding from EU programmes.

In addition, the ability to integrate a range of scientific approaches within research programmes, including

To develop the Discovery Programme into a national research centre dedicated to advanced multidisciplinary studies in Irish archaeology and related disciplines in the humanities, science and technology.

How does Task 1 relate to Discovering Ireland’s Ancient Peoples and Landscapes?

Irish archaeological research is essential to the construction of narratives about Ireland’s people and their landscapes. Archaeology cannot stand alone anymore in undertaking this task. The discipline needs to integrate its particular evidence with other disciplines. These include subjects in the humanities (e.g. anthropology, art and architectural history, economic, political, religious and social history, linguistics and topographical studies) and in science and technology (chemical analysis, dendrochronology, C14 dating, genetics, remote sensing, paleoenvironmental and paleoclimate studies). The employment of all these techniques and the ensuing dialogue of scholars enrich archaeological analysis. They also create a vibrant research community that is capable of examining specific themes (e.g. the

TASK 1

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movement of people, food production and diet, climate change), chronological horizons, local and regional studies, and landscape or monument specific surveys.

How will we transform the Discovery Programme into a vibrant national research centre?

Vibrant research depends on the existence of a scholarly community engaging in lively debate. The Discovery Programme is well placed both institutionally and geographically to draw scholars together from the whole island and elsewhere to consider specific issues. We can play a role in supporting the analytical training of graduates and introduce them to the concept of multidisciplinary studies. In an era when it is often difficult to find time to focus exclusively on an intellectual discourse, the Discovery Programme can offer that space and time by organising collaborative conferences, seminars and workshops, training modules and theme-centred focus groups.

The strength of the Discovery Programme since its establishment has stemmed from its capacity to tackle large-scale research projects, including conducting research excavations and developing applied and multidisciplinary research. We have built an expertise in new and innovative techniques and methods within archaeological research. In the field of remote sensing and applied technology the Discovery Programme is regarded as a leader both nationally and internationally. This has been proven by our success in participating in transEuropean networks and in gaining considerable support funding from EU programmes.

In addition, the ability to integrate a range of scientific approaches within research programmes, including

To develop the Discovery Programme into a national research centre dedicated to advanced multidisciplinary studies in Irish archaeology and related disciplines in the humanities, science and technology.


Irish archaeological research is essential to the construction of narratives about Ireland’s people and their landscapes. Archaeology cannot stand alone anymore in undertaking this task. The discipline needs to integrate its particular evidence with other disciplines. These include subjects in the humanities (e.g. anthropology, art and architectural history, economic, political, religious and social history, linguistics and topographical studies) and in science and technology (chemical analysis, dendrochronology, C14 dating, genetics, remote sensing, paleoenvironmental and paleoclimate studies). The employment of all these techniques and the ensuing dialogue of scholars enrich archaeological analysis. They also create a vibrant research community that is capable of examining specific themes (e.g. the

TASK 1

paleoenvironmental and isotopic research, enables the Discovery Programme to apply truly interdisciplinary methodologies to archaeological questions.

This mission will continue and will inform our scholarly contributions to Irish archaeology. A suite of existing projects will be completed and other projects will evolve gradually out of the collaborative debates that take place with Discovery Programme support. Study of Ireland’s ancient peoples and landscapes will be informed by the Heritage Council’s INSTAR research themes:

» Cultural identity, territory and boundaries

» Resources, technology and craft

» Exchange and trade

» Religion and ritual

» Environment and climate change

» Landscapes and settlement

» Archaeology and contemporary society

10 Examining environmental core sample, Carns, Co. Roscommon

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pressing due to the unprecedented number of excavations that have been carried out in recent decades. There is a need to reflect on the data accumulated from this activity. A map-based analysis will tackle the challenges of various chronological periods and chart the archaeological evidence of each period following the INSTAR themes and monument and site classifications as listed in the Archaeological Survey of Ireland (www.archaeology.ie). It is envisaged that this analysis will be undertaken in collaboration with national cultural institutions, national agencies and higher education institutions.

To embark on an overview of the current state of research in Irish archaeology from the first settlements (8000BC) to contemporary archaeology with a view to identifying potential research themes for future projects.


Since its inception in the early 1990s the Discovery Programme has striven to investigate research problems and uncharted fields in Irish archaeology. Our strategy has been to examine questions from a multidisciplinary perspective and using new research methods. At various stages there has been a pause while consideration is given to the future direction of the organisation’s research and in some instances, the resulting overviews were published (e.g. lake settlement, medieval rural settlement) and projects emerged from them.

A similar exercise will be undertaken during the period of this Strategic Plan. This exercise is all the more

TASK 2

12 Excavation in progress, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

12 Excavation in progress, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

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What will be the Discovery Programme’s role in opening up Ireland’s archaeological and topographical records to a global audience?

The Discovery Programme will work with the Heritage Council and other cultural institutions (e.g. National Museum of Ireland, National Monuments Service (DAHG), National Roads Authority, Office of Public Works, Place Names Commission, Royal Irish Academy, Trinity College Dublin, Department of the Environment Northern Ireland) to establish the extent of Ireland’s cultural heritage data sets and the current status regarding digitisation and accessibility of records. Under the EU ARIADNE programme, a plan will be developed to support institutions towards completing outstanding digitisation and data entry projects and to create a cultural data framework that ultimately should facilitate linkage between a wide range of data sets.

To work with various cultural, educational and heritage institutions to coordinate and share Irish archaeological, historical and topographical data within the context of a European framework.


Ireland is rich in written and visual records relating to its archaeology, history and topography. These sources are scattered throughout institutions located in Ireland and elsewhere, and depending on the resources available to the various repositories are accessible in different formats to scholars and the public. This is a rich resource that needs to be exploited to a far greater extent, and to be able to use it to its maximum potential, institutions need to be supported in providing open access to their records. If existing data sets could be linked, the outcome would be to create a significant cultural data resource for scholars working on a wide range of topics relating to Ireland’s ancient peoples and landscapes.

TASK 3

14 A medieval description of the monuments at Tara, Co. Meath (Royal Irish Academy, MS. 23 P 12, f. 188 r)

14 A medieval description of the monuments at Tara, Co. Meath (Royal Irish Academy, MS. 23 P 12, f. 188 r)

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What will the Discovery Programme’s role be in promoting a dialogue with the tourism industry and improving the quality of information available to the public?

The Discovery Programme will work with the National Monuments Service (DAHG), the Heritage Council, Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland and the Office of Public Works to identify ways in which to improve accessibility to information and the quality of interpretation of monuments. With Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht funding it has already initiated development of the Monastic Ireland website and mobile app for use by visitors and will publish a series of guides, both printed and e-guides, on some of the most prominent monuments in the country, beginning with guides to Dún Aonghasa and Tara.

To support tourism bodies to improve the quality of information available to the public regarding Ireland’s cultural heritage.


Ireland’s past resonates through its landscape, in its monuments and in the lives of its people. Some archaeological landscapes and monuments are very well known to the public but many are rarely visited. Some have well developed and imaginative information programmes to offer the public but the stories of many others are virtually unknown or do not reflect recent research. There is a need for the Discovery Programme to find ways in which to interact with tourism bodies and to communicate the results of its research to the wider public, be they Irish visitors or those from abroad. Given the current emphasis placed on developing the tourism industry, there is a huge untapped potential in promoting Ireland’s archaeology and history through various media and to higher standards. The more people know, the more they will appreciate Ireland’s ancient peoples and landscapes.

TASK 4

16 Pointcloud model of Clonmacnoise, Co. Offaly

16 Pointcloud model of Clonmacnoise, Co. Offaly

To create an outreach programme at transition year school level with schools, local communities and national curriculum development units.


The Discovery Programme regards its obligation to communicate its academic research to the wider community as a key mission. Our aim is to enable communities to understand that they are the custodians of their archaeological and historical landscapes. This educational remit is aligned to Goal (i) of the Heritage Council’s Strategic Plan 2012−2016 (p. 18):

To increase the understanding of the contribution that heritage makes to our identity, well-being, health and to sustainable development.

The Discovery Programme will develop outreach projects in schools, with tourism bodies, national cultural institutions, curriculum development units, and national and local archaeological and historical societies.

TASK 5

17 18 Community visit to the excavation at Derragh Lough, Co. Longford

To create an outreach programme at transition year school level with schools, local communities and national curriculum development units.


The Discovery Programme regards its obligation to communicate its academic research to the wider community as a key mission. Our aim is to enable communities to understand that they are the custodians of their archaeological and historical landscapes. This educational remit is aligned to Goal (i) of the Heritage Council’s Strategic Plan 2012−2016 (p. 18):

To increase the understanding of the contribution that heritage makes to our identity, well-being, health and to sustainable development.

The Discovery Programme will develop outreach projects in schools, with tourism bodies, national cultural institutions, curriculum development units, and national and local archaeological and historical societies.

TASK 5

17 18 Community visit to the excavation at Derragh Lough, Co. Longford

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»The Medieval Rural Settlement Project (Roscommon module): Investigated rural settlement in late medieval Ireland and in particular of the territories of the O’Conor lordship in Roscommon and adjoining areas. This involved extensive multidisciplinary studies and excavations at the O’Conor caput at Tulsk and the prehistoric and medieval ceremonial complex at Carns. Our aim is to publish the Tulsk and Carns excavation reports and associated landscape studies.

»The Lake Settlement Project Late Mesolithic (c. 8000−4000BC) module: This relates to wooden platforms and a material assemblage uncovered in the midland lakes of Derragh Lough and Lough Kinale. These provide early evidence for inland human habitations in Ireland and are of international significance because of their extensive material cultural assemblage and evidence for early settlement and economy. Our aim is to publish the completed excavation report.

To complete outstanding Discovery Programme projects and publish them in various formats and media.


The Discovery Programme has a proven track record in disseminating the results of its research across a range of formats including a monograph series, the Discovery Programme Reports series, peer review articles in national and international journals, popular books and digital media. These publications have added considerably to our knowledge of Ireland’s past. If adequate resources become available, the following publications will be produced:

»The Western Stone Forts: A comprehensive survey with international comparative studies of the monumental stone forts dotted through the landscape of the Irish western seaboard in Donegal (Grianán Ailech), Galway (the Aran Islands), Clare (Cahercommaun) and Kerry (Caherconree, Staigue Fort). These stone forts are archaeological monuments which date from the Late Bronze Age (1200−500BC) to the Early Medieval Period (c. AD 800) and are also the location of many historic events and associated folklore. Volumes 1−3 have been published (two volumes in print, one an e-publication). Volumes 4−5, which are an extensive study of the Aran Islands and forts along the western seaboard, await publication.

TASK 6

20 Aerial image taken from a balloon of the medieval tower revealed during the excavation at Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

20 Aerial image taken from a balloon of the medieval tower revealed during the excavation at Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

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technologies and scientific methods they can see these landscapes reveal their archaeology and begin to piece together the story of earlier communities who left their imprints through archaeology, written records and place names.

Your support.Anyone can support the Discovery Programme and we are actively seeking partnerships. No gift is too small. Join in our Discovering Ireland’s Ancient Peoples and Landscapes Programme with a donation to the Discovery Programme. Your donation will support:

» Excavation

» Education

» Publication

» Remote sensing investigation

To request further information regarding donations contact:

Dr Edel Bhreathnach, CEO The Discovery Programme63 Merrion Square South, Dublin 2



To seek external funding in addition to the annual State grant for Discovery Programme initiatives, projects and publications.

Financing the Discovering Ireland’s Ancient Peoples and Landscapes 2014−2017

The Discovery Programme receives an annual state grant through the Heritage Council. As with all such organisations, this grant has been reduced significantly since 2008. This reduction has lessened the extent of activities that the Discovery Programme can engage in and the number of publications that it can produce.

We have a lot to do in the next three years and the programme we wish to achieve has the capacity to create employment and benefit scholars worldwide, the Irish tourism industry and most importantly students, teachers and local communities throughout Ireland. We will actively seek external funding by raising philanthropic donations, applying for EU and other grants and outsourcing various services.

Accomplishing the Discovery Programme’s mission is not just the concern of a small community of archaeologists and other scholars. Our work is to delve deeply into the story of Ireland, its people and its landscapes and in doing so to involve the wider community in our projects. Communities can become custodians of their own landscapes; with the use of new

TASK 7

22 Relief-shaded surface model of Hill of Tara, generated lidar data

22 Relief-shaded surface model of Hill of Tara, generated lidar data

CURRENTPROJECTS

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5.

Geophysical survey at Drumanagh, Co. Dublin 24

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National Monuments Service (DAHG) and the Office of Public Works on Skellig Michael, Co. Kerry, at Glendalough, Co. Wicklow and Clonmacnoise, Co. Offaly.

Paleoenvironmental research

Scientific research has always been viewed as an essential aspect of Discovery Programme projects. Paleoenvironmental investigation enables archaeologists, historians and scientists to reconstruct ancient landscapes, environments and climates and how they evolved over time. Human, animal, insect and plant remains are scientifically analysed to discover information on diet, ancient illnesses, injuries and population movement. This analysis can also inform us about cultivation and abandonment of landscapes, climatic changes, the tree and vegetation cover of a landscape, and other human interventions such as animal grazing or cereal cultivation. Current projects include a study (with NUI Galway) of Lough Lugh near Uisneach, Co. Westmeath and post-excavation work on material from Carns and Tulsk, Co. Roscommon.

The Discovery Programme’s EU funded Projects: archaeological landscapes and technology

Core to the Discovery Programme’s work is the application of new technologies to archaeology, cultural heritage and related disciplines. Over the past twenty years we have been to the forefront of technical innovation both nationally and internationally. A feature of this research aims to construct a trusted digital archive of Ireland’s archaeological record for current and future generations. This crucial work has been recognised in Europe and as a result the Discovery Programme is participating in a series of EU co-funded projects:

Late Iron Age and ‘Roman’ Ireland (LIARI)

LIARI is a multidisciplinary project that is investigating life and death in Ireland in the Late Iron Age (AD 0−500) and Ireland’s place on the frontier of the Roman world. The project’s research questions include an assessment of the contact between communities in Ireland and the Roman world,especially in Roman Britain; a review of Romanand Roman-inspired finds from Ireland; patterns of economic, settlement and societal change in Late Iron Age Ireland; regional landscape studies (particularly in eastern coastal regions); mobility and migration of people and ideas; and the application of science (e.g. isotopic analysis) and technology (non-invasive remote sensing techniques) to the archaeology of the period.

Monastic Ireland: landscape and settlement

Monastic Ireland is a major research and tourism project relating to the archaeology, architecture and history of the monasteries and friaries of medieval Ireland. The Irish Research Council has awarded this project one of its major IRC Advanced Research Project Grants for 2013−2016. The IRC project involves a partnership between the Discovery Programme, TCD Department of Art and Architecture and UCC School of History. There are two aspects to Monastic Ireland, namely, the creation of a website and app for tourists to these sites and research on key periods in their history and their place in the Irish landscape. Development of the website and app has been funded since 2010 by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Fáilte Ireland and University College Dublin. This project also links into surveying projects conducted in recent years by the Discovery Programme in collaboration with the

CURRENT PROJECTS

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with the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies and the National Monuments Service (DAHG). It aims to laser scan as many as possible of the approximately four hundred surviving ogham stones in Ireland and to make these 3D models freely available as part of a multidisciplinary archive of ogham stones. Parts of the considerable image collections held in the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland will also be entered into the Europeana repository under the LoCloud project.

3D-ICONS

3D-ICONS is focused on the 3D documentation of UNESCO World Heritage monuments and other monuments of outstanding value with the aim of making digital content available online for the general public. Some of the most iconic sites and monuments in Ireland have been scanned including Newgrange, Knowth, Poulnabrone, Dún Aonghasa, Clonmacnoise and the walls of Derry.

ArchaeoLandscapes

ArchaeoLandscapes addresses imbalances between European countries in the use of modern surveying and remote sensing techniques within archaeology and aims to create better conditions for the use of these strikingly successful techniques across Europe.

ARIADNE

ARIADNE (Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Datasets Networking in Europe) is an international project which aims to bring together existing research data infrastructures so that researchers from different countries can use European archaeological digital data sets across borders.

LoCloud

LoCloud aims to assist small to medium cultural heritage institutions to make their collections available to the public through Europeana (www.europeana.eu), thus enriching their metadata with cloud-based services. An important project being undertaken within the LoCloud is the Ogham in 3D project, a collaboration

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with the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies and the National Monuments Service (DAHG). It aims to laser scan as many as possible of the approximately four hundred surviving ogham stones in Ireland and to make these 3D models freely available as part of a multidisciplinary archive of ogham stones. Parts of the considerable image collections held in the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland will also be entered into the Europeana repository under the LoCloud project.

3D-ICONS

3D-ICONS is focused on the 3D documentation of UNESCO World Heritage monuments and other monuments of outstanding value with the aim of making digital content available online for the general public. Some of the most iconic sites and monuments in Ireland have been scanned including Newgrange, Knowth, Poulnabrone, Dún Aonghasa, Clonmacnoise and the walls of Derry.

ArchaeoLandscapes

ArchaeoLandscapes addresses imbalances between European countries in the use of modern surveying and remote sensing techniques within archaeology and aims to create better conditions for the use of these strikingly successful techniques across Europe.

ARIADNE

ARIADNE (Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Datasets Networking in Europe) is an international project which aims to bring together existing research data infrastructures so that researchers from different countries can use European archaeological digital data sets across borders.

LoCloud

LoCloud aims to assist small to medium cultural heritage institutions to make their collections available to the public through Europeana (www.europeana.eu), thus enriching their metadata with cloud-based services. An important project being undertaken within the LoCloud is the Ogham in 3D project, a collaboration

GOALS, TIMESCALE AND MILESTONES

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6.

Relief-shaded surface model of the Brú na Bóinne landscape, generated from lidar data 28

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To develop the Discovery Programme into a national research centre dedicated to supporting multidisciplinary studies in Irish archaeology and related disciplines in humanities, science and technology.

TASK 1

Aims

To update the Discovery Programme’s structure, governance and title to reflect its role as a national centre for archaeological and heritage studies.

To have the Discovery Programme recognised as an eligible institution for funding by the Irish Research Council.

To align the Discovery Programme’s project structures with the Irish Research Council and European Research Council’s norms.

To organise collaborative conferences, seminars and workshops with the Heritage Council, HEIs, national cultural institutions and other bodies.

Milestones

A new title, logo and governance structure in place by mid-2014.

The Discovery Programme to apply to lead projects funded by the Irish Research Council, the Science Foundation of Ireland and Horizon 2020.

Research will be conducted at Research Assistant, PhD, Postdoctoral and Senior Researcher levels and in accordance with the Irish Research Council salary scales.

One annual conference and one annual public Discovery Programme projects’ day. Quarterly seminars focused on specific topics. Monthly public lectures.

Timescale

During 2014.

Seek to be eligible for 2014 funding round.

2014.

Calendar of events will be published every January.

Task 1.a: Governance

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Project

Late Iron Age and ‘Roman’ Ireland (LIARI).

Monastic Ireland: landscape and settlement (with Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork and Glenstal Abbey).

Milestones

Publication of Discovery Programme Report 8.

Publication of a revised version of the catalogue of Roman finds in Ireland.

Publication of a series of archaeological papers using contemporary scientific methods for example (isotopic analyses, C14 analysis).

Completion of an extensive field survey of potential Late Iron Age sites in Meath and North County Dublin.

Completion of an online database of sites in Ireland potentially dating from the 1st to the 6th century AD.

Period of IRC Advanced Research Project Grant.

Online website and app of top 20 late medieval monastic sites in Ireland (with Fáilte Ireland funding).

Timescale

January 2014−March 2015.

2014−2016.

2014.

Task 1.b: Current Discovery Programme Research Projects

30

Project

Late Iron Age and ‘Roman’ Ireland (LIARI).


Milestones

Publication of Discovery Programme Report 8.

Publication of a revised version of the catalogue of Roman finds in Ireland.

Publication of a series of archaeological papers using contemporary scientific methods for example (isotopic analyses, C14 analysis).

Completion of an extensive field survey of potential Late Iron Age sites in Meath and North County Dublin.

Completion of an online database of sites in Ireland potentially dating from the 1st to the 6th century AD.

Period of IRC Advanced Research Project Grant.

Online website and app of top 20 late medieval monastic sites in Ireland (with Fáilte Ireland funding).

Timescale

January 2014−March 2015.

2014−2016.

2014.

Task 1.b: Current Discovery Programme Research Projects

31

Project


Paleoenvironmental research.

Milestones

Online research database containing details of approximately 250 late medieval monasteries and friaries.

Site surveys of six different sites and monastic landscapes.

Conference on military orders in late medieval Ireland, Glenstal Abbey, Co. Limerick.

International networking forum in the context of European initiatives.

International conference on Monastic Ireland: landscape and settlement in a European context.

Publication of monograph and conference proceedings on late medieval monasticism in Ireland.

Complete the paleoenvironmental work for the Carns and Tulsk excavation reports.

Timescale

2014.

September 2014.

Spring 2015.

Autumn 2015.

2014.

Task 1.b: Current Discovery Programme Research Projects(Continued)

32

Project


Milestones

Extend to Ireland the international ‘Crackles Project’ that has developed standards and methodologies for enhancing output from palynological analyses and that has led to improved quantitative interpretation of pollen data.

Prepare a multidisciplinary research proposal for a project in the field of food production, food consumption and the environment in Ireland with a view to starting in 2015.

Timescale

2014−2015.

2014−2015.


32

Project


Milestones

Extend to Ireland the international ‘Crackles Project’ that has developed standards and methodologies for enhancing output from palynological analyses and that has led to improved quantitative interpretation of pollen data.

Prepare a multidisciplinary research proposal for a project in the field of food production, food consumption and the environment in Ireland with a view to starting in 2015.

Timescale

2014−2015.

2014−2015.


33

Project

3D-ICONS.

ArchaeoLandscapes.

Milestones

Digitisation, modelling and online presentation through Europeana of 20 iconic archaeological monuments and sites including associated rich metadata sites in Ireland and the compilation of over 100 datasets.

Production of guidelines for the 3D capture, modelling and presentation of cultural heritage objects online.

Traces of the Past exhibition to be displayed in Galway City Museum and communicated to international hosts and additional Irish hosts.

Produce ArchaeoLandscape guidebooks for the promotion and teaching of remote sensing in cultural heritage.

Development of ArchaeoLandscape activities and teaching material for secondary and third level students.

Establishment of a geo-portal for the sharing of remote sensing data within the wider research and education community.

Development of a metadata schema for aerial archives.

Timescale

2014−2015.

2014−2015.

Task 1.c: Discovery Programme EU funded Projects

34

Project

ARIADNE (Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Datasets Networking in Europe).

LoCloud.

Milestones

Work with the Heritage Council and other cultural institutions to develop a national and international cultural heritage data framework under ARIADNE.

Produce a digital repository and portal for the online access to archaeological material.

Develop integrated online solutions for the access and collection of specific archaeological data, including spatial data and archaeological science data.

Promote the ARIADNE project to the wider research community both in Ireland and internationally.

Assist small- to medium-sized cultural heritage organisations in making their archive content available online through the LoCloud infrastructure and Europeana, including the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland and the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies.

Host the Lightweight Digital Library (LDL) system.

Promote the activities of the LoCloud project to private archives and small museums with the aim of making their content available online.

Timescale

2014−2017.

2014−2016.

Task 1.c: Discovery Programme EU funded Projects(Continued)

34

Project

ARIADNE (Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Datasets Networking in Europe).

LoCloud.

Milestones

Work with the Heritage Council and other cultural institutions to develop a national and international cultural heritage data framework under ARIADNE.

Produce a digital repository and portal for the online access to archaeological material.

Develop integrated online solutions for the access and collection of specific archaeological data, including spatial data and archaeological science data.

Promote the ARIADNE project to the wider research community both in Ireland and internationally.

Assist small- to medium-sized cultural heritage organisations in making their archive content available online through the LoCloud infrastructure and Europeana, including the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland and the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies.

Host the Lightweight Digital Library (LDL) system.

Promote the activities of the LoCloud project to private archives and small museums with the aim of making their content available online.

Timescale

2014−2017.

2014−2016.

Task 1.c: Discovery Programme EU funded Projects(Continued)

35

To embark on an overview of the current state of research in Irish archaeology from the first settlements (8000BC) to contemporary archaeology with a view to identifying potential research themes for future projects.

TASK 2

TASK 3

Aims

To prepare a map-based overview of Irish archaeology from the first settlements to contemporary archaeology.

To produce an online resource based on the overview.

Milestones

Appoint a researcher to carry out the overview in collaboration with higher education institutions, national cultural institutions and national bodies.

Online publication and recommendations for future research projects.

Timescale

2015−2016.

2016−2017.

To work with various cultural, educational and heritage institutions to coordinate and share Irish archaeological, historical and topographical data within the context of a European framework.

Aims

To develop a support system with the Heritage Council for major cultural institutions with a view to creating a cultural data framework for Ireland.

Milestones

Initiate an exchange of information between institutions regarding their existing data sets and structures.

Explore possibilities of supporting institutions and the potential to link data sets within a cultural data framework.

Design an infrastructure for the cultural data framework and seek funding for its implementation.

Timescale

2014−2017.

36

To work with tourism bodies to improve the quality of information available to the public regarding Ireland’s archaeology and history.

TASK 4

Aims

Open dialogue between Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, Heritage Council, National Monuments Service (DAHG) and create a forum for regular exchange.

Monastic Ireland website and app completed and available online.

Dún Aonghasa guidebook completed.

Tara guidebook.

Milestones

Establishment of cultural heritage tourism forum.

Launch of Monastic Ireland website and app Spring 2014.

Launch of Dún Aonghasa guidebook for summer tourist season 2014.

Launch of Tara guidebook for summer tourist season 2015.

Timescale

2014−2017.

Mid-2014.

Mid-2014.

2014−2015.

TASK 5

To create an outreach programme with schools, local communities and national curriculum development units.

Aims

To develop educational programmes incorporating modules on remote surveying techniques, recognising archaeological features and objects, understanding historical sources, mapping and place names.

Work on an incremental basis with a number of schools including a DEIS school; Glenstal Abbey, Co. Limerick; schools on the Aran Islands.

Milestones

The creation of an online programme for teachers and pupils in collaboration with Trinity College Dublin and the University of Limerick on the basis of the Monastic Ireland project.

Integrate the school projects with local communities and local Heritage Officers.

Timescale

2014−2017.

Start early 2014

36

To work with tourism bodies to improve the quality of information available to the public regarding Ireland’s archaeology and history.

TASK 4

Aims

Open dialogue between Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, Heritage Council, National Monuments Service (DAHG) and create a forum for regular exchange.

Monastic Ireland website and app completed and available online.

Dún Aonghasa guidebook completed.

Tara guidebook.

Milestones

Establishment of cultural heritage tourism forum.

Launch of Monastic Ireland website and app Spring 2014.

Launch of Dún Aonghasa guidebook for summer tourist season 2014.

Launch of Tara guidebook for summer tourist season 2015.

Timescale

2014−2017.

Mid-2014.

Mid-2014.

2014−2015.

TASK 5

To create an outreach programme with schools, local communities and national curriculum development units.

Aims

To develop educational programmes incorporating modules on remote surveying techniques, recognising archaeological features and objects, understanding historical sources, mapping and place names.

Work on an incremental basis with a number of schools including a DEIS school; Glenstal Abbey, Co. Limerick; schools on the Aran Islands.

Milestones

The creation of an online programme for teachers and pupils in collaboration with Trinity College Dublin and the University of Limerick on the basis of the Monastic Ireland project.

Integrate the school projects with local communities and local Heritage Officers.

Timescale

2014−2017.

Start early 2014

37

To complete outstanding Discovery Programme projects and publish them in various formats and media.

TASK 6

Aims

Western Stone Forts Volumes 4 & 5.

Tulsk and Carns excavations.

Derragh / Lough Kinale excavations.

Milestones

Published (subject to availability of funding).



Timescale

2014.

2015.

2015.

Environmental coring, Lough Lugh, Co. Westmeath38

Environmental coring, Lough Lugh, Co. Westmeath38

MONITORING AND EVALUATION

7.

39Pointcloud elevation of Bishopsgate, part of the walled city of Derry 40

The progress of the Strategic Plan outlined here will be continuously monitored and evaluated over the period 2014−2017 and if required will be adjusted as new opportunities emerge for the Discovery Programme. Through monitoring and evaluation we will:

» Review progress.

» Identify problems in planning and / or implementation.

» Make adjustments so that we will ensure that we remain effective.

For each of the seven key tasks, working groups will be formed. These groups will develop implementation plans and performance targets to document progress under each task, facilitated by additional experts in specific areas where required. To facilitate transparency these performance targets will be set out and reported on in successive Annual Reports. An external quality review will also take place on a 3-year cycle to provide critical validation for the Plan as a whole.

A new strategic review and plan will be initiated in early 2017, with the aim of publication by 2018.

40

The progress of the Strategic Plan outlined here will be continuously monitored and evaluated over the period 2014−2017 and if required will be adjusted as new opportunities emerge for the Discovery Programme. Through monitoring and evaluation we will:

» Review progress.

» Identify problems in planning and / or implementation.

» Make adjustments so that we will ensure that we remain effective.

For each of the seven key tasks, working groups will be formed. These groups will develop implementation plans and performance targets to document progress under each task, facilitated by additional experts in specific areas where required. To facilitate transparency these performance targets will be set out and reported on in successive Annual Reports. An external quality review will also take place on a 3-year cycle to provide critical validation for the Plan as a whole.

A new strategic review and plan will be initiated in early 2017, with the aim of publication by 2018.

Survey complete, Mount Brandon, Co. Kerry




The Discovery Programme is funded by The Heritage Council




The Discovery Programme is funded by The Heritage Council

Strategic Plan2014–2017

The Discovery Programme




Documents

Strategicplan2014 2017