Volunteers Invited to Help Uncover the Mystery of Killyloughran's Lost Church

Archaeologists from Queen's University Belfast are inviting local people, schools and community groups to take part in an exciting archaeological excavation at Killyloughran, near Creggan.

The two-week community excavation, which began on 21 September and continues until 2 October 2026, will investigate an enigmatic archaeological site that has long been associated with traditions of a lost church and ancient burial ground.

The project is being led by the Centre for Community Archaeology at Queen's in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s AONB and Geopark Team and Creggan Local History Society through the Community Archaeology Programme Northern Ireland (CAPNI), supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Recent geophysical surveys undertaken by Queen's University Belfast revealed evidence of a large circular enclosure beneath the surface of the field at Killyloughran. Archaeologists believe the feature may represent an Early Medieval ringfort, but local traditions suggest it could also be connected to an earlier church that pre-dates nearby Creggan Church.

Councillor Glyn Hanna Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council said, "Killyloughran is one of those fascinating places where archaeology and local tradition meet. We know there is a significant archaeological monument beneath the surface, but we still do not know exactly what it was or when it was built. This excavation will allow the Centre for Community Archaeology to investigate those questions while giving local people the opportunity to participate directly in discovering their own heritage."

He added that "Projects like this help bring local heritage to life. They provide opportunities for people of all ages to engage with the rich history of South Armagh, strengthen community connections and contribute to the growing heritage tourism offer across the Ring of Gullion AONB."

Throughout the excavation, local schoolchildren and adult volunteers will work alongside professional archaeologists, gaining hands-on experience of archaeological excavation, recording and interpretation.

School visits will take place between 23 and 30 September, while afternoon volunteer sessions will be available for adults from 22 September to 30 September with no previous archaeological experience required.

The excavation will also include a public Open Day on Saturday 26 September from 10am to 3pm and an Open Evening on Wednesday 30 September between 6pm and 7pm, where visitors can view discoveries made during the dig and hear directly from the archaeological team. Places for all sessions are limited and advance booking is recommended.

More details can be found on the Ring of Gullion AONB website www.ringofgullion.org or follow the Ring of Gullion on social media.