The Gabhra Valley through the

Centuries to 2000 A.D.

Saturday, 13 May 2006

Lismullin Conference Centre

The Gabhra valley, which lies between the hills of Tara and Skryne, has been an important place in the history and literature of Ireland down through the centuries. This seminar will examine various aspects of its past from the pre-historic era down to modern times. Its purpose is to inform the wider public of the national importance of the valley in the evolution of the cultural and physical landscape of the area and provide them with an opportunity to visit it. The cut off at 2000 AD is chosen to exclude discussion of the proposed route of the M3 motorway and to leave more time to consider the heritage of the area.

The programme for the seminar is:

10.30 Registration and coffee

11.00 Session 1: Early Times

Introduction

11.15 The Gabhra Valley - Natural Features, Stephen McCarron

11.30 The Gabhra Valley - Man made Features, Conor Newman

12.10 The Gabhra Valley in Legend and Literature, Muireann Ni Bhrolchain

12.50 Discussion

13.15 Lunch

14.15 Session 2: Historical Times

14.20 The Gabhra Valley in Early Irish History, Edel Bhreathnach

15.00 The Gabhra Valley and the Anglo-Normans, William Battersby

15.40 Refreshment break

16.00 Session 3: Recent Times

Short contributions from local historians on more recent happenings in the Valley.

16.45 Discussion (including contributions from participants, and speakers).

17.15 Finish (and maybe a tour of the area for those who want it).

Fee for the seminar, including lunch, refreshments and documentation is €50.

The seminar will be held in Lismullin Conference Centre, Navan, Co. Meath

on the N3 at the foot of the Hill of Tara in the heart of the Gabhra Valley.

Further information and booking at the Lismullin Institute or www.lismullin.org

The seminar is supported by the Heritage Council.