Why the Domain of the Dinosaurs Is a Must‑Visit for History and Science Enthusiasts
On 16 November University College Cork (UCC) opened the doors to the Domain of the Dinosaurs, the country’s first public display of fossils that belonged to Ireland’s lone dinosaur species. The exhibition, scheduled to run until 12 April 2026, showcases more than 250 genuine fossil specimens, including the first life‑size casts of Megalosaurus, Scelidosaurus and Iguanodon, along with marine reptiles and pterosaurs that roamed the ancient Irish seas. The project is a collaborative effort between UCC’s Department of Palaeontology, the Glucksman Gallery and a panel of international experts, and it promises to transform the way visitors experience the deep past of the Emerald Isle.
Key Highlights of the Exhibition
- Megalosaurus & Scelidosaurus: The only dinosaurs known to have lived on Irish soil, now displayed as polished skeleton casts that stand eight metres tall.
- Marine Life: Ichthyosaurs, plesiosaurs and a range of extinct fish models illustrate the diverse oceanic ecosystems that once covered the region.
- New Artworks: Irish artists have responded to the fossils with contemporary pieces that bridge scientific discovery and creative expression.
- Interactive Learning: Guided tours, panel talks and workshops allow audiences of all ages to delve deeper into Paleontology and the science of Earth’s changing climate.
Beyond the impressive fossil displays, the exhibit underscores how ancient life records climate shifts and biodiversity trends—insights that resonate with today’s environmental challenges.
Building the Exhibition: A Global Collaboration
Constructing skeletal replicas required a team of twelve specialists working nine‑week shifts and incorporating expertise from three separate countries. The effort involved measuring, moulding and precisely reassembling fragile bones, ensuring the casts not only captured accurate anatomical proportions but also the historical context in which they were found.
Professor Maria McNamara, UCC’s Professor of Palaeontology, noted that the exhibition “celebrates the richness of life during the time of dinosaurs and offers unparalleled evidence of that world.” The display of dinosaur footprints, ancient trees, insects and fossilised eggs offers visitors a tangible connection to a time when reptiles dominated both air and sea.
Integrating Art and Science
The Glucksman Gallery’s Director, Professor Fiona Kearney, emphasized the importance of cross‑disciplinary collaboration: “Artists bring a creative lens that magnifies the scientific narrative, creating a dialogue between history and imagination.” New commissions from Irish artists respond to the fossils, offering modern interpretations that encourage reflection on how we view our natural heritage.
By presenting scientific objects alongside artistic works, the Domain of the Dinosaurs redefines how science is communicated to the public, fostering wonder and encouraging deeper engagement with Earth’s evolutionary story.
Extensive Programme of Events for All Ages
UCC has paired the exhibition with an extensive event calendar, featuring:
- Special guided tours led by UCC palaeontologists.
- Panel discussions with international fossil experts and local artists.
- Public lectures on evolutionary biology, climate change and palaeo‑ecosystems.
- Creative workshops tailored for primary, secondary and tertiary audiences.
School groups and community organisations can book dedicated tours and art‑making workshops from December through April. For families and individual visitors, general admission is free, with guided tours available between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday. Bookings are required in advance; please view the full programme on the Glucksman Gallery website and reserve your slot.
How to Plan Your Visit
Location and Hours
The exhibition is housed in UCC’s Glucksman Gallery on the university campus in Cork. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure entry, as public spaces may be crowded on weekends.
Guided Tours are Available with Priority Access
If you wish to experience a detailed journey through the fossil collection, book a guided tour by contacting the gallery’s visitor services or by visiting the event page.
Book a Guided Tour for Your School Group Today
School groups are encouraged to schedule their visit through the Glucksman Gallery events portal. Group bookings provide access to tailored educational content and are essential for workshops with artists and palaeontologists.
Why You Should Attend
- Cultural Significance: Witness the only dinosaurs that once roamed Ireland.
- Educational Value: Gain knowledge about evolutionary biology and climate science.
- Artistic Insight: Explore how contemporary Irish artists interpret prehistoric life.
- Free Admission: The public can enter at no cost; guided tours add depth to the experience.
Next Steps for Interested Visitors
Discover more about Ireland’s prehistoric world and the life of the dinosaurs that once walked its shores by exploring the event listings and booking your visit. If you are part of an educational curriculum, this exhibition offers a unique platform for interdisciplinary learning, combining geology, biology, history and art.
Discover More About Ireland’s Prehistoric History
To enrich your visit, consider exploring UCC’s extensive research outputs and publications on paleontology. The Department of Palaeontology regularly publishes findings on the latest fossil discoveries and their implications for understanding ancient ecosystems.
Share Your Experience
After your visit, share your thoughts on social media or provide feedback on UCC’s website. Visitor reactions help shape future exhibitions and encourage wider public participation in science and culture.
Book Your Spot and Learn More About the Exhibition Today!
Don’t miss this unique window into Ireland’s ancient past. Whether you’re a student, a lifelong learner or simply curious about the natural world, the Domain of the Dinosaurs at UCC is a destination worth visiting. For more information or to plan your trip, go to www.glucksman.org/events and reserve your place now.
