Dr Damian Shiels

Damian Shiels received his BA in archaeology from University College Cork, an MA in archaeology and heritage management from the University of Leicester and a PhD in history from Northumbria University. He has over twenty years’ experience in archaeology and heritage, holding positions from curator in the National Museum of Ireland to company director at Rubicon Heritage Services Ltd., one of Ireland and Britain’s largest archaeological firms. 

Damian is a specialist in conflict archaeology, post-medieval archaeology and heritage interpretation and has been a regular contributor to tv and radio discussing Irish archaeology and history. He pioneered the application of conflict archaeology in the Republic of Ireland, leading projects at famous battlefields such as Kinsale, Co. Cork (1601) and Vinegar Hill, Co. Wexford (1798).

Damian has published and lectured widely in Ireland, Britain, Europe and the United States on Irish archaeological and historical topics stretching from prehistory through to the modern-day.  His knowledge of Ireland’s vast and intricate history and his gracious charm make him an ideal study leader and traveling companion.