Corlea Bog and the Ancient Corlea Trackway: A Journey into Ireland’s Past
Growing up near Corlea Bog in Keenagh, County Longford, I always felt a unique connection to this remarkable landscape. As a child, the bog was our playground, a seemingly endless expanse of heather and peat, filled with mystery and adventure. Little did we know that beneath our feet lay one of Ireland’s most important archaeological discoveries—the ancient Corlea Trackway.
I vividly remember when excavation work began in the mid-1980s, led by archaeologists from University College Dublin (UCD). Suddenly, our quiet village of Keenagh became a hive of activity each summer, filled with students eager to uncover history hidden beneath centuries of peat. Watching the meticulous excavation, piece by piece, I witnessed history being carefully revealed, an experience that shaped my lifelong fascination with heritage and preservation.
Constructed in 148 BC during the Iron Age, the Corlea Trackway is one of Europe’s finest examples of prehistoric road-building. Built from sturdy oak planks, the road once stretched almost a kilometer through the boglands, likely serving as a vital route across difficult terrain. Today, thanks to careful preservation, a significant section of this ancient roadway is displayed at the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, offering visitors an incredible insight into Ireland’s distant past.
In recent years, an inspiring transformation has taken place at Corlea Bog. The decision to re-flood parts of the bog has allowed the landscape to regenerate naturally, promoting biodiversity and restoring its unique ecosystem. Walkways and cycle paths have been thoughtfully developed, allowing visitors and locals alike to immerse themselves fully in this beautiful and historically significant environment.
On our tours, guests can explore these peaceful pathways, learn about the ancient builders who created the Corlea Trackway, understanding the importance of peatlands in Ireland’s heritage, and appreciating modern conservation efforts. Visitors experience not just a beautiful walk or cycle, but a genuine connection with history, nature, and community.
For me, sharing Corlea Bog with others is deeply personal. It’s not just about showcasing a site, it’s about sharing the magic of a place that shaped my childhood and continues to inspire me every day. Come visit Corlea, and feel the stories of Ireland’s ancient past beneath your feet, waiting to be rediscovered.