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The Altartate Cauldron
The Altartate Cauldron, made of poplar with yew handles, found in a bog near clones, Co. Monaghan, Ireland during turf cutting in 1933, dating to the 2nd century BCE. The find suggests the continuation of certain Later Bronze Age traditions into the Early Iron Age, although its form differs from that of Later Bronze Age cauldrons. A band of ornament below the rim resembles that found on certain Early Iron Age spears.
National Museum of Ireland-Archaeology, Dublin.
Questions & Answers
When was Ireland first inhabited?
- Ireland was first inhabited between c. 7000-6500 BCE.
Where did the first people arrive in Ireland?
- People first arrived in Ireland at modern-day Coleraine in the north.
When did metallurgy begin in Ireland?
- Metallurgy had already developed by c. 2000 BCE.
What is the most famous metal Irish artifact?
- There are many well-known Irish works in metal, but among the most famous are the Ardagh Chalice and the Tara Brooch.
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