The Vikings were first noticed off the shore of Ireland in AD 792. Archaeologists say they heard of this land full of gold and goods and stormed it. The records they had on hand described very large numbers of Vikings invading Ireland. Before the most recent dig, many academics thought they were prone to exaggeration. […]
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The Unexpected Value and Comfort in Ireland’s Hostels
One of the major budget killers on a vacation is lodging. Hostels are a cheap way to get around that hurdle, but many have reservations about their quality. At Irish Fireside, they have reviewed some up and coming hostels in the Emerald Isle that could ease the tension of your wallet and mind during your […]
Irish Archaeology’s Photograph Competition 2014 Opens!
Do you have an eye for archaeological sites? Then the news of Irish Archaeology’s annual photograph competition will be music to your ears. And the race to find the best picture is again back on. All entries should focus on an archaeological or historical view. And your photo can be from anywhere in the world, not […]
Dublin’s Hungry Tree: Approach at Your Peril!
Ireland is famous for its natural landscape, roaring seas and historical architecture. And out of its many wonders comes Dublin’s “Hungry Tree.” Situated on the grounds of King’s Inns, stands an ancient tree, whose real age is not truly known. Though it is listed as one of Ireland’s Heritage Trees by the Tree Council of […]
Irish Emigrant’s Grandson Went to the Moon
Of the three men who landed on the moon 45 years ago this month was Michael Collins. While his name is not as recognizable as Neil Armstrong or Buzz Aldrin, the mission would have been incomplete without him. He stayed inside the orbiter while the other two men touched on the surface. Another little known […]
Top World Changing Irish Inventions
Among the world altering inventions out of the Emerald Isle is its most successful export- Guinness. Also out of Ireland came the first heat exchange device which propelled the world of whiskey distilling. But the green country is known for more than just booze. Inventions like the ejector seat and color photography also have roots in Ireland. […]
Largest Stash of Ancient Celtic Coins- Discovered!
While professionals have been searching for ancient, Celtic coins for a number of years, it was a group of amateur treasure hunters who hit the jackpot. In the Channel Islands, these hunters discovered millions of dollars worth of ancient coins. Nearly 50,000 silver and bronze coins were brought up, dating back to 50 BC. The […]
What Marriage Records Can Tell You About Your Ancestors
When you’re looking into your ancestral past, perhaps the first thing you need to locate is you long lost relatives’ marriage records. These papers are often full of fascinating and pertinent information. Be sure to look at the person who performed the service to get an idea of where they may have attended church. You […]
What’s Low Cost and What’s Free in Ireland
Vacationing always ends up being more money than we expect. Especially if that vacation happens to be in Ireland. Airfare is a huge chuck of your budget. Adding in hotels, cars and food, your wallet really starts to suffer. That’s why you should try to find low cost or even free attractions. You can always […]
Some of Ireland’s Strangest Ancient Brehon Laws
Before the final takeover of the ancient Gaelic lands by English in the 17th century, there was law and order. Named the Brehon laws after wandering lawyers, these laws presided over the land and people. Though some of them were quite strange. For example, the only musician with substantial status was the harpist. Other musicians […]