By John Biggins Before the arrival of the Anglo-Normans in Ireland, a sophisticated legal system had already existed for centuries. These intricate laws had been committed to writing mostly between the seventh and eighth centuries by Christianised learned classes who wove rich tapestries of law, poetry, myth, religion, history and tradition generally (senchas). We know … Read more
By Charlotte Murphy The unusually heavy rain earlier this year has led to fears (yet again) of a looming fodder shortage this summer, while yields of potatoes and other vegetables are expected to be very poor. While this has led to speculation that it is linked to climate change, such extreme weather events were not … Read more
By Meredith Cutrer and Colleen M. Thomas Despite significant research, there is much that we still do not know about Ireland’s ninth- and tenth-century stone crosses, the renowned symbols of medieval Irish artistic prowess, including the precise functions they served in their communities. A number of Ireland’s early stone crosses contain a mystery that might … Read more
By Anna Rose Garvey The role of an archivist can be varied and multidisciplinary. At times, a collection may provide new insights into old problems, if an archivist is ready to make the connection. In 2023 a member of the IFI Irish Film Archive team made a unique discovery: excerpts from an MGM film believed … Read more
By Fiona Fitzsimons The courts of petty sessions were the lowest courts in the land. They developed independently of manor courts, which they eventually replaced. Petty sessions evolved from the exercise of summary jurisdiction by justices outside the quarter sessions. They heard criminal and civil matters, gave summary verdicts on lesser cases and referred more … Read more