Uncovering Medieval Trim

Trim is one of Ireland’s best-known medieval towns, and yet for a long time aspects of its early history have been poorly understood. This publication brings together the results of recent excavations. Of particular significance are the indications of Iron Age activity in Trim (Fiona Beglane), as well as evidence for the location of the early medieval church on the site of St Patrick’s cathedral (Eoghan Kieran), and the discovery of the remains of Athboy Gate (Matthew Seaver). Mandy Stephens examines life and death in the medieval suburbs, while new light is shed on the extent of the Franciscan friary and its cemetery (Finola O'Carroll). Settlement and industry on High Street is illuminated (Carmel Duffy; Alan Hayden), as is the form and line of the town’s early defences (Donal Fallon; Rosanne Meenan). A 2008 excavation reveals intriguing results concerning the Dominican friary and its associated settlement (M. Seaver, Mark Kelly & Ciara Travers), while the role of animals in the diet and economy of medieval Trim is assessed by Fiona Beglane. An essay by Michael Potterton synthesizes the results, and outlines their significance and implications.