Newry & Mourne Museum

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Excavations Provide Clues to Site's History

During the restoration work at Bagenal's Castle, archaeologists are continuing to find out more about the history of the castle and its environs. The current investigations further enhance our knowledge of the site and augment the archaeological discoveries of the 2000, 2002, 2003 and early 2005 excavations.

Archaeologists are removing by hand the modern blocking from various architectural features of the castle and are monitoring stripping of the plaster and render from the walls of the castle. The removal of render on the external face of the east wall has revealed doorjambs on the second and third floor of the castle that gave access into the tower. Arrow slits, window jambs and joist pockets have also been revealed. The discovery of the latter feature facilitates the reinstatement of the original floor levels.

The Warehouse has yielded some exciting clues about Newry’s past. When a pit for the lift shaft was being dug, archaeologists discovered stone footings that appear to be the remains of a building. Later in date, and overlying the stones were 33 burials. Both finds are earlier than the sixteenth century castle and are likely to be medieval and associated with Newry’s abbey. After examination by an osteoarchaeologist, the remains will be reburied in a suitable location.