Archaeologists have concluded a nearly four-month excavation near the site of the Abbey of Holy Cross in Carrickfergus, uncovering the remains of potentially up to 100 individuals. The dig, situated on the grounds of a planned development off the Belfast Road, commenced following the serendipitous discovery of significant artifacts during preliminary groundwork for the project.
Throughout the extensive excavation, which concluded on Friday, archaeologists unearthed a multitude of skeletal remains, predominantly belonging to males but also including women and children. The site, believed to be in close proximity to the medieval Abbey of Holy Cross, also known as Woodburn Abbey, is steeped in historical significance dating back to the 14th century.
Historical records indicate that following Sir Arthur Chichester's acquisition of the land in 1604, along with extensive territories in the northeast, the abbey met its demise. Francis Joseph Bigger, a renowned antiquarian, chronicled the destruction of the abbey in his scholarly works, detailing the extensive dismantling of the structures and repurposing of materials.
While the archaeological findings remain under wraps pending authorization from the developer, insights shared by a local contractor involved in the project shed light on the nature of the discoveries. Approximately 100 graves have been identified, with peculiar burial arrangements suggesting varied funeral customs practiced during the medieval era.
The significance of this excavation extends beyond the mere retrieval of skeletal remains; it offers a poignant glimpse into the rich tapestry of history woven within the Carrickfergus landscape. As plans for housing developments and commercial ventures loom on the horizon, the preservation and interpretation of these archaeological treasures become paramount, ensuring that the legacy of the Abbey of Holy Cross endures through the annals of time.
