The Northern Ireland Environment Agency confirmed today it will be staging a fresh excavation at Dunluce Castle on June 18 as part of its series of ‘Archaeology Days’ events open to the public.
NIEA archaeologist Paul Logue explained: “In this excavation we are hoping to discover more about the evolution of the castle and the 17th century village nearby.
“We want to discover when the castle was built and how it developed into the remains we see today.
“We are also hoping to find out more information about the people who lived in the castle and nearby village of Dunluce and what village life was like in the 17th century.
“Members of the public will have a chance to witness the dig, which takes place on 18 June, at first hand.”
Dunluce Castle was once the stronghold of the McDonnells, Earls of Antrim and Lords of the Isles.
One of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, the clifftop castle between Portrush and Portballintrae is one of the best known, but in many aspects, least understood castles in Northern Ireland.
Largely built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the castle is now in state care.
A number of local primary schools will have the opportunity on 18 June at the excavation to find out how archaeologists are trying to unearth the castle’s rich heritage.
Each weekend throughout the summer there will also be recreations of medieval life in the castle as part of NIEA’s ‘Living History’ strand of events.
The castle will play host to a Summer Fair on 18 July.
Notes to Editors:
1. The ‘Archaeology Days’ event takes place at Dunluce Castle on 18 June and is free of charge. It is open to the public at 11.00am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm.
2. To find out more about this event telephone (028) 9054 3030
3. Archaeology Days are organised by NIEA, in celebration of National Archaeology Day. There are events and activities to suit everyone including tours of historic sites, activities for children and school groups and excavations at several sites.
4. For media inquiries please contact the DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003 or, out of office hours, call the EIS Duty Press Officer on pager 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
