Divers uncover ancient logboats in the waters of Lough Corrib

Underwater archaeologists have made an exciting discovery of logboats dating back to 2500 BC, as well as Viking battleaxes, on Lough Corrib.

One of the ‘newer’ boats – from the 11th Century – could become one of the best-preserved ever found in Europe.

Already, there is eager speculation that it may have been on a raid when it sank, as there was a selection of Viking weapons on board.

The logboats were discovered by marine surveyor Captain Trevor Northage of anglingcharts.com, who is mapping the lake to produce up-to-date and accurate navigation charts.

A series of dives were then carried out last summer by the Underwater Archaeology Unit from the National Monuments Service.

Twelve logboats, which date from 2500 BC to the 11th Century AD, were discovered.

The oldest, found at Annaghkeen near Headford, was built in the early Bronze Age and measures just over 12m x 1m.

“The scale and excellent craftsmanship of the boat would appear to indicate that it was not used for everyday activities such as fishing or transporting cargo, but rather that it was a high status boat which was probably only used for important occasions such as ritual ceremonies or transporting important local dignitaries or perhaps a local chieftain,” the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht said.

The ‘Carrowmoreknock Logboat’ from the 11th Century was ‘near-fully preserved’, with seats still intact. There were also three Viking-style battleaxes found, as well as a work axe, two iron spears and a clay brick.

See full story in this week’s new-look, compact Connacht Tribune.