Archaeologists are set to reveal major historical discoveries made during excavations along the route of the new Adare Bypass, offering fresh insight into the heritage landscape of County Limerick.

Among the key finds uncovered during the project is the Ardshanbally Brooch-Pin, an eighth-century, 12 cm cast-bronze pin featuring vibrant blue glass settings and intricate abstract designs.

At a site in Croagh locally known as the “Field of Blood,” team members excavated early Christian human remains, including a stone-lined grave containing a woman and child.

Lead archaeologist Sean Tiffin will explain how advanced technology helped map the terrain before digging.

LiDAR laser scanning and geophysical surveys identified 140 potential new archaeological sites alongside 158 previously recorded monuments, giving researchers a clearer picture of Limerick’s ancient footprint.

The digs also recorded early medieval enclosures, charcoal pits, a medieval moated site, an ancient sweathouse, and everyday items including Iron Age or medieval axeheads and belt buckles.

To share what experts have learned about the local landscape, the Adare Community Trust—alongside local authorities, TII, and the Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland—is hosting a free public talk as part of National Heritage Week.

Sean Tiffin will present the complete findings at Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel in Adare on Monday 17th August @ 7.30 pm.

Admission is free, and all are welcome.

From Limerick’s Live 95.

Photo: The Ardshanbally Brooch-pin following conservation (Photo: John Channing, AMS)