The Great Mace of Galway

The theme for National Heritage Week 2025 (16–24 August) is ‘Exploring Our Foundations’. To celebrate Heritage Week, Museum staff have prepared a special tour that begins with the origins of Galway – from Gaelic fort to Anglo-Norman town – and then focuses on an iconic object that reveals a story that has helped to shape the city’s unique character.

Made around 1710 and presented to Galway by Mayor Edward Eyre, the Great Mace is a highly ornate piece of silverware, decorated with the insignia of England (rose), France (fleur-de-lis) Scotland (thistle) and Ireland (harp). It also bears the arms of Galway and of the British royal family. The Mace was in the possession of US newspaper magnate, William Randolph Hearst, from the 1930s to the 1950s, but were returned to Galway in 1961. Join us to learn more.

This event is free of charge, but advance booking is required. For further details or to make a booking, please email museum@galwaycity.ie or call (091) 532460.

Suitable for adults and young people aged 10+