The Excavation of the Hall of the Red Earl

Chief archaeologist Dominic Delaney will share the exciting discoveries and historical significance of the Hall of the Red Earl, a fascinating medieval archaeological site in the heart of Galway that is now one of the city’s top visitor attractions. Dating back to the 13th century, the hall was linked to the founding of Galway by the Anglo-Norman De Burgo family. As Galway’s first municipal building, it served as a tax office, courthouse, and town hall. Named after Richard de Burgo, the Earl of Ulster, it was later abandoned in the late 15th century when the influential ‘Tribe’ families of Galway took power. Over the centuries, the hall fell into ruin and was covered over, but its remains were unearthed by Office of Public Works (OPW) archaeologists in 1997, thanks to its identification on the famous c. 1651 Pictorial Map of Galway city.

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Dominic’s presentation is part of a series of a full day of talks to celebrate three decades of the Galway Civic Trust / Dúchas na Gaillimhe! Our 30 Year Anniversary Celebration will be held at the Mick Lally Theatre, Druid Lane, Galway, on Friday, 23 August. This special event promises a day full of engaging talks, captivating performances, and cultural enrichment.

Information about all of the days events available here.

Supported by Galway City Council: Local Community Festival Grant 2024.