Neil Jackman on Ireland’s Ancient East
Jody's guest is author, Neil Jackson. Neil is here to talk about some of the 5,000 years of Irish history that he writes about, as well as share stories about his excavations which separate fact from fiction.
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Neil Jackman, the director of Abarta Heritage. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.
About Abarta Heritage and Neil Jackman
Neil Jackman, archaeologist, author, and Director of Abarta Heritage has dedicated his career to uncovering and sharing Ireland’s incredible history. Through his work, Jackman combines excavation, community engagement, and storytelling, bringing the past to life for locals and visitors alike.
At the heart of Jackman’s mission is Abarta Heritage, a project that makes exploring Ireland’s history easy and engaging. Abarta provides free audio guides for iconic sites across the country, giving travelers the chance to learn at their own pace. The OPW Heritage Card can offer access to Ireland’s historic landmarks, encouraging visitors to further explore the nation’s cultural legacy.
Jackman’s passion is making history accessible to everyone, from seasoned historians to curious travelers, ensuring that Ireland’s stories are not only preserved but celebrated.
Empowering Communities Through History
Jackman collaborates closely with local groups to uncover and promote lesser-known heritage sites.
In the charming small village of Bruff, his efforts have helped to highlight its rich local heritage. Similarly, Lough Gur, has gained recognition for its Neolithic remains and enduring legends. Jackman’s work encourages locals to take pride in their history while offering travelers a deeper, more personal connection to Ireland.
Hellfire Club Excavation
Among Jackman’s most fascinating projects is the excavation of Dublin’s Hellfire Club, a site infamous for its 18th-century tales of debauchery and the supernatural. Legends tell of a cursed building atop Montpelier Hill, but Jackman and his team aimed to uncover its true origins.
Beneath the surface, they unearthed a Neolithic passage tomb, dating back over 5,000 years. This incredible discovery revealed that the hill had long been a place of significance, centuries before the Hellfire Club’s notorious gatherings. The excavation successfully combined archaeology and storytelling, separating myth from reality while deepening our understanding of Ireland’s ancient history.
Top Archaeological Discoveries
Jackman has uncovered remarkable pieces of Ireland’s past, including two particularly thrilling finds. One was a 6th-century wooden mill preserved in a bog. This rare find included intact timbers, visible axe marks, and even ropes and tools, offering a glimpse into life over a thousand years ago.
The second was a Neolithic axe discovered during the Hellfire Club excavation. This rare artifact, along with megalithic art found nearby, highlighted the site’s significance as a sacred place for ancient communities. These finds exemplify Jackman’s ability to uncover hidden stories through archaeology.
Ireland's Ancient East
In his book Ireland’s Ancient East: A Guide to Its Historic Treasures, Jackman helps readers discover off-the-beaten-path sites that highlight Ireland’s layered history. Designed for independent travelers, the guidebook features maps, directions, and detailed information about fascinating landmarks.
Jackman’s work has always aimed to make history more approachable, and this guide offers visitors a chance to explore Ireland’s heritage at their own pace. From famous locations like the Rock of Cashel to lesser-known wonders like Ardmore’s cliff walk, his recommendations are both practical and inspiring for those looking to experience authentic Ireland.
Learn more about Abarta Heritage
For more inspiration, you can visit Abarta Heritage, or follow on Facebook or Twitter. You can also listen to the Salmon of Knowledge podcast, which shares Ireland’s myths, legends, and history in engaging detail.
Read more: Visiting Athassel Abbey with Neil Jackman
Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 25
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