GráNite at the Ulster Folk Museum

Time: 11:00 to 16:00 

Come along to a day of discovery as we explore and celebrate the Ballintaggart Court Tomb in this iteration of GráNite at Ulster Folk Museum. 

GráNite celebrates old stones and the history and folklore that surrounds them. Inspired by iconic megalithic monuments, stone circles and portal tombs, GráNite explores the rich geology, history, lore, and cultural significance of ancient stones through music, art, film and discussion. Often overlooked, these old stones can tell us a lot about the past and our connection to the land. Their stories are woven into the fabric of Irish mythology and this project seeks to preserve the legacy and foster a deeper appreciation for the stones, their shapes, landscapes, stories and energy. 

We are delighted to be hosting this iteration of GráNitw where we will be exploring and celebrating the Ballintaggart Court Tomb, expertly reconstructed stone by stone and now permanently installed in the rural area of the Ulster Folk Museum. See what's taking place throughout the day below:

Visit the Ballintaggart Court Tomb (all day) (no. 55 on map)

The 6000-year-old court tomb has found its new home at the Ulster Folk Museum. Spend some time walking round the court tomb and learn about our ancient past. 

Journey of the Tomb Talk (12:00 & 15:00) (no. 27 on map)

Learn about the journey of the tomb, its arrival at the Folk Museum and the context of Neolithic life in Ireland during this short talk from Dr Greer Ramsey, Curator of Archaeology at National Museums NI, at 12:00 and again at 15:00 in the Picture House.

Curated Archive Footage (all day) (no. 27 on map) 

Step into our original 1920s Picturehouse and watch a programme of curated film from the NI Screen Digital Archive exploring heritage sites in Ireland. See GráNite visuals, created by Stephen Hackett, and listen to a recently commissioned soundscape by Stuart Watson, Belfast-based musician, composer and DJ. 

Crafts in McCusker's (all day) (no. 30 on map)

Call by McCusker's Pub and create your own stone monument over a drink. Air-drying clay, clay tools and reference material will all be provided for you. There'll also be traditional music in the pub from 14:00 to 16:00. 

Plaster Casting Workshops (12:00, 13:00 & 14:00) (no. 35 on map)

Take part in a hands-on plaster casting workshop with Rachael Campbell-Palmer where you'll create your own small-scale plaster replicas of the ancient Ballintaggart Stones. This workshop lasts 15 minutes and will take place at 12:00, 13:00 and 14:00 in the Lagan Room (limited numbers and on a first come first served basis).

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GráNITE started in 2022 and is programmed by Rachael Campbell-Palmer. For more information follow @granite_belfast on Instagram.

Image Credits: Rachael Campbell-Palmer.