The ogham alphabet is the earliest form of writing in the Irish language. Ogham inscriptions were carved on stones mainly between AD500 and AD600. They survive in various regions around Ireland. Waterford has over 50 stones including new and lost examples e.g. in the medieval parish church of Knockboy, the souterrain of Drumlohan, and the excavated site at Dromore/Kiltera. 

Given the rich heritage of Ogham  in Waterford Waterford City and County Council and Lismore Heritage Centre will host a seminar on May 16th  exploring the ancient Irish Alphabet, the discovery, location and interpretation of ogham stones across Waterford and the work of the Ogham in 3D Project. 

The aim of the seminar is to introduce the audience and the local community, to the Ogham in 3D project and to recognizing and caring for their ogham heritage under the following topics (with specific reference to the Waterford oghams):

• An introduction to ogham
• Ogham stones in the landscape
• Ogham inscriptions as a historical and linguistic source
• The survival of the ogham tradition

A booklet on the heritage of Ogham in Waterford will be published by Dr. Edel Bhreathnach and Dr. Nora White who are  delivering the seminar programme. 

 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.