Irish Bog Bodies and the Secrets of the Ancient Midlands

torso and head of an irish bog body sitting on an examination table
Bog Bodies
Erin's Isle

The bogs of Ireland’s midlands have been used for centuries for harvesting peat for fuel. But during the harvesting activities it’s not unusual for harvesters to find other secrets in the bogs. Like bodies. And the National Museum of Ireland has some of those bodies on display.

The environment of the bog preserves bodies. Not only bodies but fabric, leather, clothing, hair and fingernails are still intact.

a flesh covered hand of an irish bog body

It’s a bit dark….but utterly fascinating. And these bodies have been able to shed light on life in Ireland back to the Iron age.

skeletal remains of an irish bog body laying on a display table
museum display panel with bog researcher in the field using cameras

Hear what’s been learned about the bodies in the bogs from the experts at the museum, in this episode of Erin’s Isle.

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The Scottish Kiltmaker Keeping Highland Traditions Alive

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Voices of the Boyne