Munster Archaeology is a provider of archaeological services for both large- and small-scale projects across the island of Ireland – serving developments in construction, forestry, agriculture and renewable energy schemes. In addition to this, Munster Archaeology has played a significant role in a broad range of heritage schemes and archaeological research projects.
Providing an efficient response to archaeological issues, Munster Archaeology has a number of areas of expertise, including mapping/surveying, testing and excavation. We are also well affiliated with a number of archaeological specialists such as Osteologists, Forensic archaeologists, Geophysicists, Illustrators and Underwater archaeologists. All archaeological projects are managed by Aidan Harte B.A. M.A. M.I.A.I., a fully licensed archaeological director and member of the Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland with over 10 years experience in the archaeological sector.
Archaeological Excavation
Where archaeology has been identified and all measures have been taken to avoid and protect the remains, Archaeological Excavation may become necessary. This is the aspect with which people are generally most familiar and involves the meticulous recording of archaeological features through mapping, drawing, sampling, photography and a detailed written account of the soils and procedures undertaken. In the Republic of Ireland, all Archaeological Excavation is licensed through the Dept. of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and the National Museum of Ireland.
Munster Archaeology has achieved a high standard of archaeological excavation and its director has been licensed to do so since 2005. Large scale projects often require significant levels of staff and we have shown flexibility in forming the best team for a given job. The successful and efficient excavation of an archaeological site prevents undue delays, avoids unnecessary costs and protects from legal objections to the project in the future.
The archaeological excavation does not end with field-work however. After the actual excavation there is always some level of post-excavation analysis and reporting. Often this stage is not outlined clearly to potential clients (who are subsequently legally obliged to cover these costs). This work covers everything from radiocarbon-dating to artefacts specialists and illustrators, as well as the team who compile the final report. At Munster Archaeology, the cost of post-excavation analysis is always estimated to clients, prior to actual excavation.
