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The Domhnach Airgid Shrine from Ireland
The Domhnach Airgid (silver church), made of wood, gilt copper alloy and silver, enamel, and rock crystal, from Clones, Co. Monaghan, Ireland, 8th and later 14th centuries.
The shrine was given by Saint Patrick to Saint Macartan, founder of a church at Clogher, Co. Tyrone. When opened in the 19th century, it contained part of an ancient manuscript of the Gospels. The older part of the shrine dates to the 8th century. It was substantially remodeled in the mid-14th century by the abbot of Clones, John O'Carbry. The front bears figures of saints flanking a crucifixion.
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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