Step back to medieval Carrickfergus as free workshop unveils interactive 13th-century town map

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, is pictured with Shirin Murphy, Heritage Officer, at Carrickfergus Museum ahead of the Mapping Medieval Carrickfergus events In August

People with an interest in local history will have the chance to explore what Carrickfergus may have looked like nearly 800 years ago at a free event next month showcasing a new interactive medieval map of the town.

On Saturday, 15 August, Carrickfergus Museum will host a day of workshops and talks that offer a behind-the-scenes look at how historians, archaeologists and mapping specialists have reconstructed the town as it is believed to have appeared around 1250 AD.

The event gives the public an early opportunity to test the new digital map before it becomes part of a permanent museum exhibition planned for 2027.

A glimpse into medieval Carrickfergus

The morning session will focus on the creation of the interactive online map, allowing visitors to learn how historical evidence, archaeology and modern mapping software have been combined to recreate the Anglo-Norman town.

The project is a collaboration between Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s museum team and Queen’s University Belfast, supported by funding from The Heritage Council through the Irish Walled Towns Network. It forms part of work leading towards the European Year of the Normans 2027.

Researchers have drawn on centuries-old maps and other historical sources to build a digital reconstruction of Carrickfergus during the medieval period.

Expert talk explores Norman towns

In the afternoon, Professor Keith Lilley, a geographer from Queen’s University Belfast, will deliver a visual lecture titled Mapping our Anglo-Norman Towns.

Using Carrickfergus alongside other Norman settlements as examples, the talk will examine how mapping can reveal the development of medieval towns and will include a question-and-answer session.

‘A unique glimpse into our past’

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, said the project highlights the town’s importance in Irish history while making heritage more accessible.

“Carrickfergus has a rich and fascinating history, and this innovative project offers a wonderful opportunity to bring the Anglo-Norman past to life for residents and visitors alike.

“The combination of academic research, archaeology and digital technology between the Council and Queen’s University will help us better understand the development of our historic town over the centuries.

“Carrickfergus is one of the most significant Norman heritage sites on the island of Ireland, and this project highlights the important role this part of the Borough played in shaping history.

“The new digital map will give people a unique glimpse into what the town may have looked like around 1250 AD, offering an engaging and interactive way to connect with our past.

“I encourage everyone with an interest in local history, heritage or archaeology to attend this free event and help us road test this new map created through fascinating research. It is a fantastic example of how partnerships can help make our shared heritage accessible to all.”

Looking ahead to 2027

The earliest surviving map of Carrickfergus dates from 1560 AD, but researchers believe it preserves clues to an even older medieval street layout.

The interactive map is expected to become available online and as a touchscreen display at Carrickfergus Museum as part of a major exhibition opening in 2027. That exhibition will explore the arrival of the Anglo-Normans in Ireland from 1169 and the lasting impact they had on the island’s history.

Places for the morning workshop can be booked by emailing carrickfergusmuseum@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or calling 028 9335 8241.

Places at the afternoon lecture can be reserved through the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council website:

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