Natrual reserves of copper and gold made Ireland an attractive destination for the Celts.
The Celts were not the first to explore and exploit the rich resources entombed in the oldest of the landscapes of north west Europe. The earth resources were well known to the peoples who lived here in the stone age and during the bronze age.
Ireland had copper and gold natural resources that attracted early migrants. These reserves were presnet in landscapes like Croagh Patrick in County Mayo, Ireland's holiest mountain and a place of pilgrimage. The origins of the pilgrimage lie in the festival of Lughnasa, one of the greatest feasts of the pagan Celts. Some of Europe's finest treasures were crafted from these metals by the Christian Celts.
In the 12th century, Gerald of Wales saw some of the finest work of the craftsmen of Ireland, describing it as the work of angels.
'Exploring The Celtic Lands' broadcast on 17 February 1991. The presenter is Éamon de Buitléar and the narrator is Peadar Lamb.
Éamon de Buitléar produced two series of 'Exploring The Celtic Lands' to explore how the Celtic fringe of Europe is a place of mysterious differences and surprising similarities.
The two series of five parts were produced for RTÉ Television in 1991 and 1992. The series illustrates a culture of survival in the landscape of those areas in Europe where the Celtic people still live
The series was filmed by Cian de Buitléar and narrated by Peadar Lamb. The traditional music soundtrack and signature tunes are performed by Paddy Moloney, Éamon de Buitléar, Derek Bell, and Matt Malloy.
The Irish language version of the series is called 'Tar Amach Faoin Aer'.
