Craggaunowen - The Living Past Experience

Craggaunowen – The Living Past Experience is a unique and fascinating tourist attraction located in County Clare, Ireland. This open-air museum takes visitors on a journey back in time to experience what life was like in Ireland during the Bronze Age.

The centerpiece of Craggaunowen is a full-scale replica of a crannog, an ancient settlement that was built in the middle of a lake for protection. This crannog is built on a small island in a lake on the grounds of Craggaunowen and is accessible via a small boat. Visitors can explore the crannog and see what life was like for the people who lived there, including how they hunted, fished, and cooked their food.

In addition to the crannog, there are also several other exhibits at Craggaunowen that showcase different aspects of life during the Bronze Age. These include a ring fort, a souterrain (an underground passage used for storage and defense), and a fulacht fiadh (an ancient cooking site). There is also a museum on site that features artifacts from the Bronze Age, including weapons, tools, and jewelry.

One of the highlights of a visit to Craggaunowen is the opportunity to see live demonstrations of ancient skills and crafts. Visitors can watch as skilled artisans demonstrate traditional weaving, pottery making, and metal working techniques. There are also live demonstrations of ancient hunting and cooking methods, including archery and the use of a fulacht fiadh to cook meat.

For those who want to learn even more about the history of the area, there are guided tours available that provide detailed information about the different exhibits and their historical significance. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the area and are happy to answer any questions visitors may have.

Visitors should plan to spend at least a few hours at Craggaunowen in order to fully experience all that this fascinating attraction has to offer. There is a cafe on site that serves a variety of refreshments and snacks, as well as a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and crafts made by local artisans.

Overall, Craggaunowen – The Living Past Experience is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Ireland and the Bronze Age. With its unique exhibits, live demonstrations, and knowledgeable guides, it offers a truly immersive and educational experience that is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Ireland.