2021:246 - GALWAY: Merlin Castle, Merlinpark, Galway

A programme of archaeological monitoring was undertaken during conservation works at Merlin Castle, Merlinpark, Galway City. The conservation works included the removal of vegetation from the wall tops, and the repair and repointing of the stonework, and the installation of a lightning conductor.

A significant amount of loose stone lay on the site at the commencement of the works and this material was hand-sorted under archaeological supervision and retained on site.

Excavations associated with the conservation works were generally confined to a series of post-holes for a security fence, and a single drainage pit. The floor surfaces at ground-floor and top-floor levels within the building were also cleaned manually under close archaeological supervision. Several holes were also drilled, two through the lower vault of the structure and two into the basement floor, to facilitate the installation of the new lightning conductor. No finds or features of archaeological significance were uncovered during the works.