Offaly Heritage shares documentary on discovery at St Mella's Cell in Lemanaghan

Offaly Heritage has shared a new documentary exploring a fascinating archaeological discovery at St Mella’s Cell in Lemanaghan.

The short film documents the discovery of human remains following damage caused by Storm Éowyn on St Manchan’s Day, January 24, 2025.

Radiocarbon dating confirmed that the remains date from between the 7th and 10th centuries AD, with some burials placed within decades of the death of St Manchán, founder of the Lemanaghan monastery in AD 664.

The discovery prompted nine months of collaboration involving the Lemanaghan community, Offaly County Council, the National Monuments Service and the National Museum of Ireland, with archaeologists and heritage experts working to survey, analyse and properly record what had been uncovered.

Archaeological excavation was carried out under licence by Irish Heritage Schools, led by Dr Denis Shine.

The documentary captures the efforts of local people to ensure the archaeological remains were treated with the care and attention they deserved, while also examining the significance of the discovery within Lemanaghan’s ancient history.

The film was launched as part of a recent heritage event, where it was screened five times for groups of historians, local residents and visitors.

"It was wonderful to see such strong interest and enthusiasm throughout the day. A big thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a success," said the Lemanaghan Bog group.

The project is a partnership between the Lemanaghan community and Offaly County Council, supported by Heritage Council grant funding in 2026 under the Offaly Heritage Plan funding programme.

The documentary offers viewers an opportunity to discover what was uncovered at St Mella’s Cell in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn, and to hear the story of the community’s efforts to protect and document this important piece of Offaly’s heritage.

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