ELAINE CONROY

ELAINE CONROY

About ELAINE

My background is in hospitality, but have had an interest in history from an early age. I began studying archaeology on a part-time basis, achieving a diploma in this field in 2006 from NUI, Galway, and a BSc (Hons.) in Heritage Studies from GMIT Mayo Campus, in 2017.

As a tour guide at Rathcroghan, I enjoy the wealth of both the natural and built environments that this landscape offers, demonstrating Irish heritage from the prehistoric to the medieval period. For me the best aspect of the tour is entering into the ancient cave of Oweynagat, described in medieval texts as the gateway to the Otherworld. Experiencing the stillness and the darkness when the lights go out, only momentarily mind you, gives an understanding why so much mythology is associated with the cave and why it is home to Halloween.

I am from Dublin originally but I am well settled in Sligo since 1997, with one of Ireland’s ancient hill forts on my doorstep. I have a keen interest in local history andfocus my research within the South Sligo area, where I am involved with my local Community Enhancement Group in the promotion of itsdiverse heritage. I have published articles on my locality in the Sligo Field Club Journal.