Since my last blog post about ogham and how there are so many ogham (pronounced oh-am) stones in Ireland I've been getting some inquiries as to where these stones can be seen. With so many of them dotted around the country they must be on every tourist map around, unfortunately while there are plenty to be found in fields around the country it is difficult to gain information or access to these sites. And many of us don't fancy traipsing through endless fields in search of a hidden ogham stone!
So due to popular demand I've compiled a list of some of the best places to view ogham stones without getting your shoes muddy... We've done the work in researching the past for our Ogham Jewelryso we thought it only right to share the knowledge we've gathered. Number One is Univeristy College Cork. With a collection that was started in 1861, UCC has the largest collection of Ogham stones on open display in Ireland. It's completely free and open to anyone who would like to visit.
When you arrive on the campus just make your way to the Main Quadrangle Building. Along these corridors you are met with a row of beautifully preserved standing stones. All bar one of these amazing ogham stones are from Cork. They have been studied by the Archaeology Department of the university and so have plenty of information on display on each stone. I have to admit I often rushed through this corridor to meet friends and never took the time to study them but it's only after you have researched ogham fully that you can truly appreciate their beauty.
Visit University College Cork History page to read more on their collection.
Another great place to see a collection of ogham stones is Dunloe Co. Kerry. As you leave Killarney heading for Beaufort there is a display of ogham stones between Beaufort village and the Gap of Dunloe. You can also admire the amazing scenery and visit Kate Kearney's Cottage where you can buy Claddagh Design jewellery (hint hint)! The collection of ogham stones have been arranged in a circle with some information behind the history of the stones. if you don't make it to the south west of the country the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin has some ogham stones on Display in their archaeology museum on Kildare Street. Also see our Guide to the Complete Guide to the Ogham Alphabet
View our Handcrafted Ogham Jewelry Range