Originally built to store the city’s church records, this 18th-century gem has been lovingly restored as a museum of local religious and cultural history.
No 5 Vicars’ Hill may look like a humble old home from the street, but the wide-ranging collections inside offer a fascinating portal to the past. Stroll along the row of Georgian houses known as Vicars Hill, many of them constructed by the 18th-century Archbishop Richard Robinson. Visit No 5 Vicars’ Hill to discover an expansive exhibit of historical artifacts, from Neolithic stone tools to early modern prints and medals.
This property, formerly a diocesan registry and then a residence, was refurbished and opened to the public by the Armagh Robinson Library in 2011. Admire its original interior features as you explore the various displays of library holdings. While the diocesan records have largely been removed, advice is available for visitors who would like to research deeper in the registry’s archives.
Every major era of Irish and European history is represented in the museum’s collection. See ancient Roman coins, Bronze Age weapons and a set of early Christian artifacts collected by Archbishop Gervais Beresford. Examine the 5th-century Armagh Ogham Stone, which is imprinted with parallel lines of the alphabet of the earliest known Irish language.
The Armagh Robinson Library holds an impressive collection of over 3,000 prints. Look for highlights on display, including art prints by William Hogarth. Appreciate the artistry of James Tassie’s engraved gems and rare casts of medals commissioned by Louis XIV to commemorate his reign.
Delve deeply into the story of Armagh. In addition to a sampling of documents once housed in the registry, the museum holds a series of historical maps and information panels on the city’s development and its archbishops. Head to the Robinson Room to see a 3-D model of the city.
Find No 5 Vicars’ Hill opposite St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral. It’s a short walk here from the Armagh Robinson Library. Opening hours change seasonally, so check online in advance. The museum is free to enter, although donations are welcome. Guided tours are available for a small fee. Bring children along to engage with interactive displays such as writing in Ogham script or solving jigsaws of old prints.
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