The Big Dig

The
Big
Dig
2022

The School of Irish Archaeology is proud to introduce the next step in the evolution of creative and hands-on learning for our younger generation. Our replica ‘Viking House’ and excavation site allows children and young adults to explore the Viking world through a simulated archaeology dig.

The site is a fully mobile construction which is suitable for Festivals, Family Fun Days, Heritage/Corporate Events and is now available for participating schools and event centres nationwide. The workshop gives children and young adults the chance to experience what it is like to be an archaeologist by learning how to excavate the remains of a Viking house.

As they dig through the site, participants will unearth Viking treasures and artefacts dating back 1,000 years. They will learn about the lives of our Viking ancestors as history is brought to life by qualified archaeologists. Our educational workshops offer a unique experience that will leave our future generations fascinated by our ancient ancestors and eager to learn more.

The Big Dig 2022

Waterford Festival

30th April 2022

John Robert’s Square, Waterford City

Timahoe Heritage Festival

4th & 5th June 2022

Timahoe, Co. Laois

Cruinniu Na Og - Carlow

11th June 2022

Carlow County Museum

Cruinniu Na Og

11th June 2022

New Ross Library, Co. Wexford

Watch this space!

More Dates TBC

The students loved the Big Dig. They really enjoyed the digging and it helped them to remember what they had learned in class. The size of the groups was perfect as they could all get involved and not just observe, they felt that they were real archaeologists; It was active learning in the best sense.

Sinead NiGhabhann

After he went to a Big Dig workshop last summer at Rathmines Library, he started his own archaeological dig in our back garden!

Marnie H

All of the teachers who supervised classes attending The Big Dig, were very impressed by the workshop and the facilitators. The workshops themselves were very engaging and hands on. The girls’ curiosity was piqued by the wonderful array of artefacts on display. The facilitators were very interesting and enthusiastic, answering all queries, effectively and patiently.