One of the most historic pieces of ornamental gold dating back to the Iron Age, the Broighter Hoard, will go on display in Derry later this month.
Mayor Gerry Mullan examines one of the Broighter Hoard gold exhibits.
The collection is currently back home on display in Limavady, the result of a campaign to have it returned to its place of origin.
Ploughed up in 1896 by two local farmers at Broighter, near Ballykelly, the people of the North West will get the opportunity to see the unique pieces of this treasure trove courtesy of the National Museum when it goes on display in the Tower Museum from 27 November.
The precious pieces will go on display in Derry as part of the City of Culture celebrations.
Mayor of Derry Cllr Martin Reilly said the city was “honoured” to be able to display tghe collection.
He said: “We are delighted to get the opportunity to exhibit the famous Broighter Hoard collection and more so honoured that we are included in the collections’ tour from its permanent location at the National Museum in Dublin.
“This exhibition will allow the public to view the incredible ornate artefacts of gold as well as hear the story of the region’s deep archaeological and human connection to the pieces.”
Mayor Reilly concluded: “As one of Ireland’s greatest treasures, visitors to the Tower Museum will have a unique opportunity to see this magnificent collection.”
Roisin Doherty, Ccurator of Tower Museum, said the Broighter Hoard was one of the “most historical culturally significant archaeological finds” in Ireland.
She added: “The Broighter Hoard is a magnificent collection of gold objects dating back to the Iron Age, as far back as 1st Century BC.
“The exhibition allows the public a chance to view the precious artefacts preserved over 100 years, but also learn of the intrigue surrounding the circumstances of its discovery and the idea that the gold may have been an offering to the ancient Celtic gods.”
She concluded: “All this adds to the mystery and fascination of the items. I would encourage everyone to come along and view this exhibition.”
The Broighter Hoard is currently back home in Limavady where the exhibition is now on display in the town’s Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre until 23 November before being brought to the Tower Museum where it will go on display from 27 November until 8 December.
Daily opening times for the Tower Museum are from 10.00am – 5.00pm (late night opening until 9.00pm on Thursday 28 November, Friday 29 November, Thursday 5 December and Friday 6 December). Admission is free.
The arrival of the Broighter Hoard exhibition in Derry will be accompanied by a day of free family arts and crafts activity on Saturday 30 November and Saturday 7 December at the Tower Museum.
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