The Athenry Heritage Centre provides a unique educational experience for students to learn and engage with Anglo-Norman history which is part of the national curriculum.
The activities of the centre allow students to experience medieval history using a range of learning tools which includes interactive exhibits, models of the medieval town, the market square and the torture dungeon. The tour guides of the centre provide a concise history of the Anglo-Normans in Ireland and their influence on the people and town of Athenry.
The tour also illustrates the importance of Athenry Castle and the Dominican Order whose presence in the town provided education and healthcare to the local population. Students can also see the towns original Mace & Seal, the oldest of their kind in Ireland. To enhance their learning experience and make learning fun, the Athenry Heritage Centre provides have a go archery where students can test their skills and enjoy a friendly competition with their fellow students.
To complete your historical journey, the students can enjoy a range of medieval costumes that reflect the social standing in the Middle Ages. The presentation by the tour guides includes participation by the students to be part of Irish history and discover life under the Anglo-Norman's.
The 'Medieval Experience' is a fun way to learn however the centre also provides a general tour which still includes an in depth history presentation but doesn't include archery and the medieval costumes.
The 'Medieval Experience' Tour is two hours in duration and the general tour is one hour.
Your school tour is completed with a tour of Athenry Castle which is free to all secondary schools. This restored Anglo-Norman castle is operated by the OPW. The tour guides of the castle will illustrate the key features of the castle and provide a short audio visual film which highlights the history of the castle and influences of the Norman overlords. Schools must contact Athenry Castle to confirm a booking. 081 844 797.
Admission for the Medieval Experience is €6.00 per student and a general tour is €4.50 per student.
