2021:462 - Dolphin Tomb, Bullaun, Galway

Archaeological monitoring of the Dolphin Tomb Conservation Project was carried out in October 2021. The project was funded under the Community Monuments Fund. The Dolphin Tomb is located in Bullaun Graveyard (GA097-029) adjoining Bullaun Church (GA097-029001). The existing church was built in 1975 to replace an earlier church (GA097-029002) said to have been built in the 18th century by the Dolphin Family of Turoe House. There is no evidence of any church here prior to the 18th century but the curvature of the road to the east of the church and the townland name ‘Bullaun’ suggests this might be the site of an Early Christian church. The Dolphin Family were of Anglo-Norman origin and held their lands under the de Burgh Lords of Connacht and Earls of Ulster from at least the 13th century. They resided at Galboley Castle (GA097-104) before moving to Turoe House (GA097-155) in the early 18th century.
The tomb has several finely carved and decorated grave slabs with inscriptions dating from the third quarter of the 18th century to the early 20th century. The conservation works comprised the taking down of the cut stone elements of the structure, remedial and repair works to the rubble stone base and top of the vault, and the re-assemblage of the tomb. All works associated with the project were monitored and recorded. No excavation was undertaken.

Dominic Delany & Associates, Creganna, Oranmore, Co. Galway