There is strong evidence to suggest that the first kings of Ireland came from Donegal, a leading archaeologist has claimed.
Brian Lacey, Chief Executive of the Discovery Programme, will explore his theory in detail when he speaks at the upcoming Beltany Heritage Conference in Raphoe.
Dr Lacey is one of two leading archaeologists who will speak at the conference.
The archaeologist appointed to monitor developments at the proposed route of the M3 motorway through Tara, Dr Conor Newman, will be the main speaker.
Dr Newman, lecturer at NUI Galway, will focus on the importance of Tara through six millennia of Irish history when he addresses the conference on Saturday October 6 in the Cathedral Hall, Raphoe.
He will be joined by Dr Brian Lacey, CEO of the Discovery Programme, an institution for advanced research in Irish archaeology.
Dr Lacey will talk about the link between the ancient Gaelic kings of Tir Conaill and Tara.
"From 500 to 1,000 AD the Kings of Tara are said to have belonged to the Ui Neill Dynasty," explained Dr Lacey.
"However there is strong evidence to suggest that the first two or perhaps three kings of Ireland actually came from Donegal, from the Cenel Conaill. The traditional belief that the northern branch of the Ui Neill Dynasty ruled from Tara was merely a propagandistic construction of the eighth century".
According to Dr Newman: "Tara is greater than the sum of its parts in every respect and the monuments that define Tara extend across the Hill and into the surrounding landscape. This was the premier cult centre of prehistoric Ireland and later the seat of its High Kings. It's a landscape rich in monuments, mythology, place names and history. These are footprints of the past and have given Tara its iconic status in Irish history and culture."
Dr Newman will also address the issue of the how the M3 proposed motorway will impact on this landscape.
Ms Mary Harte, Conference Convenor, says they are privileged to have two of the country's leading authorities on Tara address the conference this year.
"This will be one of the rare opportunities for the public to hear from those involved in research at Tara on the importance of this cultural landscape. I have no doubt we will be treated to a stimulating debate on the context of Tara in modern Ireland," Ms Harte said.
Other speakers include Dr Kieran O'Conor from NUI Galway who will explore the life style and dwellings of the Gaelic Kings. Diarmuid O'Seaneachain, archaeologist, will look at how the ordinary people lived and local naturalist Stuart Dunlop will present a "Medieval Banquet" fit for a Donegal king and his subjects.
Donegal Heritage Officer Joe Gallagher will give a talk on conserving our archaeological heritage.
The Conference will be begin with a performance by local school children from St Eunan's NS and Raphoe Central School on Friday October 5 at 7.30pm in the Cathedral Hall.
Michael Starrett, Chief Executive of Heritage Council will perform the official opening followed by a Reception.
Talks begin on Saturday October 7 at 10am and will run until 5pm at the Cathedral Hall.
Registration for the conference can be made through the Beltany website www.beltany-circle.com or by contacting Raphoe Community In Action at 074 9173966. Forms are also available at local libraries.
