New landmark exhibition to feature host of Limerick's medieval treasures

A NUMBER of Limerick artefacts will feature in an exciting, new exhibition on early medieval Ireland and its impact on Europe at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin.

A total of 17 rare manuscripts on loan from the Abbey Library of St Gall in Switzerland will be displayed alongside over 100 extraordinary objects from the world in which they emerged, many of which are on display for the first time. These include early medieval objects from Limerick, Dublin, Donegal, Kerry, Meath, and Westmeath.

The recently discovered Ardshanbally Brooch, found near Adare, dating from the 8th-9th century, will also be on display for the first time.

A Viking sword found in 2018 in the River Shannon in Limerick, on display also for the first time, is of the very type that struck fear into the hearts of an Irish scribe who wrote in one of the St Gallen manuscripts about his relief at stormy seas, knowing the Vikings could not traverse these dangerous waters. This prestige weapon is decorated with glittering silver and copper wire.

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A leather shoe recently excavated in Mungret, is of the type worn by St Matthew as depicted in a fragment of the Abbey Library of St Gall. Research conducted for this exhibition, confirms that this type of shoe was common in Ireland when the manuscript was illustrated.

Minister for Arts and Limerick TD, Patrick O’Donovan said: “This exhibition is a unique opportunity to see these manuscripts in Ireland and displayed alongside a fascinating array of artefacts that reflect their contents. It’s fascinating to see that researchers today are still discovering new insights into objects over 1,000 years old."

Words on the Wave: Ireland and St Gallen in Early Medieval Europe focuses on early medieval Ireland and its profound impact on ideas in Europe. The new exhibition is on display in the National Museum of Ireland, Kildare Street in Dublin 2 from May 30 until October 24. Admission is free.