Dublin is an ancient city and many sites of archaeological importance have been uncovered over the years. Most of central Dublin within the canals is a Recorded Monument, as are areas outside this zone, e.g. parts of Finglas, Swords and Donnybrook.
Archaeology in Dublin is overseen by the City Archaeologist. If you are considering a building project, contact us before you submit the planning application.
We can then advise you on the likely archaeological implications.
We screen all planning applications submitted to Dublin City Council. When a site has archaeological potential, we make a written submission to the Planning Department, who may attach an archaeological condition.
Midlands Viking Symposium 29th April - 1st May 2011
The Midlands Viking Symposium 2011 will explore the impact of the Vikings on both sides of the Irish Sea. This is an opportunity to share recent research with a wider community interested in the Vikings.
The organisers are proud to offer papers by some of Ireland’s leading scholars in Viking Studies, as well as some renowned UK colleagues. This year’s Symposium offers the traditional day of papers presented by scholars, but has also some exciting additional activities.
The Viking Symposium is hosted by Dublin City Council and co-organised by the Dublin City Archaeologist, Dr Ruth Johnson. It will be held at the Wood Quay Venue (Dublin, Christchurch) which includes parts of the original Viking fortifications of Dublin. It will be formally launched on 30th April 2011 by the Lord Mayor of Dublin.
The Midlands Viking Symposium will be opened on the evening of 29th April by the Director of the National Museum of Ireland, Dr Patrick Wallace, followed by an opening address by Dr Christina Lee & John Sheehan with a reception at the Viking Gallery of the National Museum of Ireland Archaeology, Kildare Street for delegates. This reception is kindly sponsored by the National Museum of Ireland.
We have arranged a special rate for delegates with the Clarence Hotel and the Harding Hotel in the immediate vicinity of Christchurch. The Friends of Medieval Dublin are providing a walking tour of Viking and medieval Dublin 10-11.30am, to be followed by a group-visit to Dublinia & Christchurch at 11.30-1pm on Sunday 1st May.
Clarence hotel location
Archaeological Publications for Dublin City
We have published numerous documents about the archaeological heritage of Dublin City. Read the Archaeological Archives Study - the Pilot Study that explores the feasibility of establishing a stable and accessible archive of photographic, written, drawn and digital records arising from archaeological excavations in Dublin City.
Read our archaeological publications
Download the St. Luke’s Conservation Plan /Íoslódáil an Plean Caomhnaithe San Lúcás (PDF 1.8Mb)
Conservation Plan Dublin City Walls & Defences
Dublin City Archaeological Archive Guidelines (cover attached separately)
Sources for Archaeologists in Dublin City
This document contains information for archaeologists who work in Dublin City.
Dublin City Walls Conservation Plan
Dublin City Walls are one of the most important, but poorly preserved and presented monuments in the city. This plan addresses concerns about the walls - both above and below ground.
Contact us at the address below to request a copy.
Walks through Medieval Dublin
Use these maps to explore medieval Dublin.
Viking Age Dublin
A popular book on the archaeology of Ireland’s first town by Ruth Johnson that is available in your local library or in bookshops
Dublinia: The Story of Medieval Dublin
A popular book on the history of Dublin in the Middle Ages that is available in your local library or in bookshops
Archaeological Archive
The Archaeology Office maintains an archive of secondary historical material. This includes modern and historic maps, photographs, books, digital files and written records. These can be consulted by researchers upon appointment.
To arrange an appointment, contact the Archaeology Office at the following address.