Archaeology

The Discovery Programme

The Discovery Programme is an independent body and an autonomous archaeological research company established in 1991. The programme has consistently been to the forefront of progressing high quality archaeological research and technology. Responsibility for the Discovery Programme was transferred to the Heritage Council in 1996. It now operates completely under the aegis of, and with funding by, the Heritage Council. For more information on this innovative body visit www.discoveryprogramme.ie

INSTAR Grant Programme

INSTAR (Irish National Strategic Archaeological Research) funds thematic archaeological research. It supports projects that require short to medium-term assistance and facilitates collaboration on national or international levels. Since beginning in 2008, the INSTAR Grant Programme continues to successfully fund collaborative archaeological research projects under seven diverse thematic areas:

      1. Cultural Identity, Territories and Boundaries
      2. Resources, Technology and Craft
      3. Exchange and Trade
      4. Religion and Ritual
      5. Environment and Climate Change
      6. Landscapes and Settlement
      7. Archaeology and Contemporary Society

INSTAR actively implements many of the Heritage Council’s Strategic Plan 2012-2016 objectives by supporting employment, education and awareness. An independent Review of the INSTAR Programme [PDF 190KB] completed in early 2010, found it to be a resounding success and a model for other countries to follow. 

All research carried out under the INSTAR Programme can now be easily accessed under the INSTAR Web Archive on this website.

Proposals for 2012 INSTAR grants were invited in late 2011. Previous grants approved can be accessed in the Grants Section of this website. The INSTAR Programme is currently closed for applications.