Discovering Medieval Ferns, Co. Wexford

Medieval Ferns was one of south-eastern Ireland’s most important settlements. It played a key role in local, regional and national history from its foundation by St Aidan in 598, especially when serving as King Diarmuid McMurrough’s royal seat and the head of an influential medieval diocese. The archaeological and built heritage of the town reflect its historical importance, with significant architectural remains dating to both the early and the late Middle Ages – not least in the form of the imposing early thirteenth-century Ferns Castle. While some of the town’s archaeology, such as the castle, has already been investigated and published, a significant body of research has taken place within the last decade or so, including several telling investigations of the early medieval origins of Ferns. This beautifully illustrated volume, with full colour throughout, shines a light on the remarkable history and archaeology of medieval Ferns, highlighting the intriguing discoveries of recent excavations and research programmes.

Michael Potterton is a lecturer in the Department of History, Maynooth University. Stephen Mandal is a director of the Irish Archaeological Field School and a founding partner of the ‘Digging the Lost Town of Carrig’ project. Denis Shine is a director of the Irish Archaeological Field School and a founding partner of the ‘Digging the Lost Town of Carrig’ project