The Bottom Line
Once you have found the entrance (the ticket office is in the back building, on the upper level) you are in for a treat. Three exhibitions and a small section re-creating a medieval scriptorium take you back in time and to another country - the story of Saint Patrick, the history of Armagh itself and finally Gulliver's travels are subject of colorful displays. Children will especially love the last mentioned part, but all the exhibitions are designed for the whole family.
Pros
- Lively and colorful exhibition in the center of the City of Armagh.
- Three separate exhibitions cover Saint Patrick, the history of Armagh and Gulliver's travels.
- Both of Armagh's cathedrals are within walking distance.
Cons
- Entrance area can be confusing.
Description
- Several historic inner-city properties were converted and interconnected to create the modern complex.
- Armagh's ecclesiastical supremacy is traced back to Patrick, thus the museum to him is a fitting tribute.
- Jonathan Swift, author of "Gulliver's Travels" spent some time in Armagh, providing another theme for an exhibition.
Guide Review - Saint Patrick's Trian, Armagh (County Armagh)
Saint Patrick's Trian, located right in the center of the "Cathedral City" of Armagh, is an ambitious development. Housed in historic buildings (heavily converted on the inside) behind the tourist information offices, it is home to three major exhibitions.
The Story of Saint Patrick
Patrick, having founded churches left, right and center, also built Armagh's first church and was the reason for the bishop's primacy over Ireland (a tradition in both the Roman-Catholic and Anglican Church). The story of Patrick and his mission is told here, with texts and fitting illustrations as well as life-size figurines. The focus remains close to the historical Saint Patrick with some references to the legends thrown in.
The History of Armagh
Armagh has been a center of power since prehistoric times - witness the nearby Navan Fort. The history of the city is sketched in lively (and life-size) tableaux in this exhibition - you will witness a Viking raid, the burial of Brian Boru and the rebuilding of the city in more modern times. The different Christian traditions existing in (and sometimes dividing) Armagh are also covered in a non-partisan way.
Gulliver in Lilliput
This part of the exhibition will especially delight children, but adults can enjoy it too. The sojourn of Lemuel Gulliver with the diminutive inhabitants of Lilliput is brought to life. The diorama showing Gulliver as a captive is full of detail and worth a few minutes of close observation. Gulliver himself comes alive in the final room ...
A small section replicating a medieval scriptorium, a souvenir shop and a small but very good restaurant round off the visit. After all this a slightly steep walk will take you to either of Armagh's cathedrals. If you have time, make sure to visit both of them.
