Derrynaflan Chalice facts for kids
The Derrynaflan Chalice is a very old and special cup from the 8th or 9th century. It was found with four other important church items, forming what is called the Derrynaflan Hoard. This amazing discovery happened on February 17, 1980, near Killenaule in County Tipperary, Ireland. Experts say this hoard shows some of the most beautiful and detailed art from early medieval Ireland.
Derrynaflan is a small area of dry land surrounded by bogland. It used to be the site of an early Irish monastery. Along with the chalice, a silver plate called a paten, a hoop (possibly a stand for the paten), a church strainer, and a bronze basin were found. These items are among the most important examples of early Irish metalwork still existing today. The hoard was given to the Irish government and can now be seen at the National Museum of Ireland.
The treasure was likely hidden a long time ago, between the 10th and 12th centuries. This was a time when Viking raids and local conflicts often made people hide their valuable belongings to keep them safe.
How it was Found
Derrynaflan is a small island of dry ground in the middle of peat bogs. It is located in County Tipperary, not far from Cashel. The monastery here was very important before the Viking raids began. The ruins you see there today are from a later Cistercian church.
The Derrynaflan Hoard was discovered on February 17, 1980. Michael Webb from Clonmel and his son, also named Michael, found it. They were exploring the old monastery site using a metal detector. They had permission to visit the land, but not to dig. The site was protected by law, meaning it was against the rules to disturb it. The discovery was kept secret for about three weeks at first.
Because of how the hoard was found, and some legal discussions that followed, new laws were made in Ireland about finding ancient treasures.
The Ardagh Chalice is another famous Irish chalice from around the same time. It was found nearby in County Limerick. Both chalices were made when the Eóganachta family ruled in Tipperary and Munster. The Uí Fidgenti family, who were allies, ruled in the Limerick area. Feidlimid mac Cremthanin, a king and bishop who ruled Munster from 821 to 847, was a supporter of the Derrynaflan monastery. Some people think he might have even paid for the chalice to be made.
The Derrynaflan Chalice is considered a masterpiece of early Irish art. It was shown in a special exhibition called "The Work of Angels" in London in 1989.
Images for kids
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The Derrynaflan Strainer, another item found in the hoard.
See also
In Spanish: Cáliz de Derrynaflan para niños
