projects
- - Exhibition Design - Manufacture & Fit-out - Virtual Reality - Interactive Installations - Bronze sculptures
Medieval Ferns Experience & Norman Trail
For people taking the Ireland’s Ancient East journey, a trip to Ferns is worth taking. Its rich medieval heritage played a significant role in shaping Ireland as it is today. It was from Ferns that Diarmuid MacMurrough, King of Leinster, set off to seek help in retaining power, resulting in the arrival of the Normans in 1169, thus changing the course of Irish history. In Ferns you can walk in the footsteps of medieval and Christian history, with archaeological remains testament to its title of ‘Ancient Capital of Leinster'. The Medieval Ferns Experience – a small but very complete exhibition located at Ferns Community Centre and designed by Mirador – tells the story of a time when St Aidan's monastery dominated the landscape in Ferns in the 6th and 7th centuries through to Gaelic kings, their rivalries and alliances in the 12th century. Modern technology is utilised in a brilliant way and virtual reality headsets are used as part of the tour to enable visitors to literally step back in time and immerse themselves in a period that has long been consigned to the annals of history. There is a sensory aspect to the tour as well which utilises visitors sense of touch and smell to identify artefacts that are hidden from view. There are also interactive panels and everything is easily accessible. The tour begins with a short film which features a voice over by well known RTE broadcaster, Ann Doyle, who is also a native of Ferns. The film, which lasts around eight minutes, gives an overview of the ancient history of the town and in particular the significance of St Aidan and Diarmuid MacMurrough. Visitors get the opportunity to see if they are fit to take over the Gaelic kingship by standing on the inauguration stone and answering some specific questions relating to decisions they would make if they were king. Visitors are also reminded to visit the other attractions in the town including the monastic site and Ferns Castle. Make sure to also check out the recently installed 'helmet' installations throughout the village, designed and produced by Mirador - there are five in all and each focuses on a different aspect of Ferns' history. As visitors lift the hinged helmet, a bronze sculpture by artist Toma McCullum is revealed. Each sculpture illustrates a story told through the adjacent graphic panel.