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KERRY COUNTY MUSEUM has been revealing the ancient secrets of Killaclohane Portal Tomb using 21st-century science this week as part of Science Week. The Tomb in the Lab is a series of discussions, demonstrations and displays taking place during Science Week Ireland.

All events are based on Killaclohane Portal Tomb near Milltown, Kerry’s oldest known man-made structure dating to about 3800BC. The Neolithic tomb underwent a major excavation and restoration programme in 2015 and the artefacts found have been the subject of intensive scientific scrutiny. The techniques used in these tests and the results are showcased for the first time during Science Week, which runs until Sunday, November 19.

Today at 4pm, Dr Linda Lynch will deliver a presentation entitled How the Dead speak to Us (free admission, booking necessary).
Tomorrow, at 4pm, the museum will host The Family Science Show with Catherine McGuiness. This is a family event suitable for children aged 6-12. It costs €1 per person and booking is essential.

Finally, this Saturday, November 18, you can learn all about how pottery was made thousands of years ago for the purpose of holding the cremated remains of our ancestors buried at Killaclohne.
Ceramicist Lone Beiter O’Reilly will give this demonstration, which is free of charge, at the Denny Street museum. It takes place from 11am to 4pm.
Normal admission fee applies, adults, €5, children go free. This event is suitable for children of all ages, and no booking is required.
 

 
Above: Killaclohane Portal Tomb near Milltown, Kerry’s oldest known man-made structure dating to about 3800BC.