BCHAP, Digging the Past, Growing the Future

The Blackfriary Community Heritage and Archaeology Project (BCHAP) was set up in 2010 by the Irish Archaeology Field School (IAFS) in conjunction with Trim Municipal District, Meath Country Council, a range of academic partners and, most importantly, the local community. Even though it is in public ownership, and is a protected monument under the law the site itself was little used or appreciated. It was in danger of falling into severe dereliction and its history and heritage forgotten. The over-arching objective of BCHAP was to combine the activities of research, teaching and excavation with community interest and participation to re-frame the way the area was perceived and to turn it into a place of community involvement with potential for social and economic benefit.

“The BlackFriary Archaeology Field School completely changed my life and helped me get on a career path that I absolutely love. The staff and the local community make the experience absolutely perfect. I recommend this field school to any interested in gaining archaeological experience!” Jordyn Marlin Student 2014/Community Intern 2015