28th October 2022
On Friday last our 1st year students swapped the classroom for the bog! Hidden away deep in the bogland of Co Longford, students, along with their teachers, explored an inspiring relic of prehistory: a togher or Iron Age road built in 148 BC. Known locally as the Danes’ road it is the largest of its kind uncovered in Europe .
Historians agree that it was part of a route way of great importance and was a section of a ceremonial highway connecting the hill of Uisneach, the true centre of Ireland to our own royal site of Rathcroghan.
Students were able to view the trackway as it’s on permanent display in a hall specifically designed to preserve it. The track was built from heavy planks of oak, which sank into the peat. This ensured it was preserved for the next two millennia.
Our students also had the opportunity to watch a recording of the archaeology team from UCD set about the excavation process in 1991 and enjoyed hearing stories and theories about its construction from Mary their guide.
Students were then brought on a walking tour into the bog to learn about the complex ecosystem, in particular the role played by spagnum moss which absorbs carbon dioxide from the air.
Even though this outing was focused on preparing for History CBA 1 ‘The past in my place’ students made links to their Geography, Woodwork, Science and CSPE classes throughout the day.
The rain stayed away and everyone relished some beautiful autumn sunshine before returning to school.
1st year student, Lachlann Evans, pictured during a recent history fieldtrip to Corlea bog, Co. Longford
