Quiet Man Cottage
Museum
Archaeological &
Historical Interpretative Centre
Circular Road, Cong,
County Mayo, Ireland
Exhibition
The
upstairs of the cottage houses an innovative permanent
exhibition detailing the immense wealth of archaeological
and historical interest to be found in Cong and it's
environs, dating back to pre-historic times.
The exhibition was compiled by leading Archaeologist
Michael Gibbons who has published a new historical guide and
map covering the archaeology and history of Cong from
7,000BC up to the 19th Century. Mr Gibbons has previously
lectured to the National Geography Society and the
Smithsonsian Institute in Washington.
(Photo opposite shows Cong Stone
Circle)
The new guide will be available at the reception for
those wishing to study more into the archaeology and history
of Cong.
There is now in place a new centre of learning for school
groups where history is taught not only by text but by
beautiful illustrations and models.
Experience for yourself this unique journey into the
past.
Historical Cong
Cong, nestling on the shores of Lough Corrib offers a
wealth of history and unspoilt natural beauty that once seen
is never forgotten.
Spectacularly situated on the shores of Lough Corrib,
Cong is one of the most beautiful and historic villages in
Ireland. It owes its special character to its location on an
island in the middle of the River Cong. It owes its name to
the isthmus or 'narrows' from the Irish word cunga, which
separates Lough Mask and Lough Corrib, two of the finest
wild trout fisheries in Europe.
The rising of waters at Cong and the myriad of
underground streams beneath the area has captivated people
for millennia. Congs strategic location has drawn
hunter-gatherers, farmers, soldiers, kings, monks and
adventurers for almost 7000 years.

Ballymagibbon Cairn
Cong itself, is but a jewel in the crown of an incredibly
rich archaeological landscape of international importance,
which surrounds the village.
"It is perhaps no surprise then to find such
an array of stunning prehistoric sites including evidence
for the earliest communities in the Cong area. Migrating
animals were hunted in the region during the Mesolithic
period (Mesolithic 6000-9000 years ago). Recent
discoveries of hunting implements on a turlough near the
village indicates the presence of these nomadic people. A
midden of oyster shells, limpets and periwinkle has been
found in the village."
The above excerpt taken from "Cunga Feichin : Cong -
Irelands premier ritual centre" archaeological guide by
Michael Gibbons & Lisa Collins. A full guide/ fold out
map is available taking you from the Mesolithic to the
present day history of Cong. It also presents an ideal
selection of tours of the area.
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