Annual Heritage Week takes place from 16th – 24th August 2025.
All around Ireland there will be free admission to over 70 fee-paying heritage sites on Saturday next, August 16th.
The aim of Heritage Week each year is to build awareness and education about our heritage, thereby encouraging its conservation and preservation.
But perhaps one of the better happenings, involving both children and adults, is taking place here in Co. Tipperary at Cashel Library on Monday August 18th next.
Ms Maura Barrett, (Cashel Library) explains:
Firstly, Ogham is an ancient Irish alphabet primarily used for inscriptions on stone and wood, dating back to the early medieval period. It is characterized by a series of strokes or notches arranged around a central stem line. Each letter is represented by a specific number of these strokes, and the alphabet is often referred to as the “Celtic Tree Alphabet” due to its association with trees.
Experienced community artist Ms Cher Gleeson will give an engaging, hands-on workshop, exploring this early medieval Ogham alphabet, latter which was used to write the early Irish language. This workshop invites participants to translate their own names into the ancient Ogham script, connecting personally to Irish heritage through language and symbolism.
The morning workshop, 11:00am – 12:30, will be for children aged 8 years and over.
The afternoon workshop, 2:30 – 4:00pm, will be for adults.
Each participant will:
- Learn the history and meaning of the Ogham alphabet.
- Translate their name using a traditional Ogham reference.
- Create an “Ancient Name Scroll”, a parchment-style artwork aged with natural techniques, featuring their name in Ogham script.
- Shape a personal Ogham Stone from clay, inspired by standing stones and tree lore.
Participants will leave with two meaningful keepsakes and a deeper appreciation for Ireland’s rich linguistic and artistic legacy.
N.B. This workshop is free but places are limited. Please call Cashel library Tel: 062 63825, to secure your place.
Visitors attending this event can locate the Cashel Library building; situated on Friar Street, Lady’s Well, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, HERE. (G487+RX).
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