Overview
The Ros Tapestry is one of the largest embroidered tapestries in Europe: 15 panels were planned, 14 are finished, and the last is still being stitched. Each panel is roughly two metres by 1.4 metres, and together they trace the Norman arrival in south-east Ireland, the founding of New Ross, and the medieval life of the region. The exhibition centre opened on the town’s quay in 2008, directly opposite the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience.
One thing to sort out before you set off: opening is limited. The centre runs Thursday to Saturday, roughly 10.30am to 3.30pm, and closes over the winter, when visits are by appointment only. Ring ahead on 051 445396 rather than turning up on spec, especially out of season.
A story stitched by hand
The project is the work of some 180 volunteer stitchers, who put millions of stitches into the panels over more than two decades. It began in 1998, when Rev. Paul Mooney of St Mary’s Church proposed an Irish answer to the Bayeux Tapestry to mark the Norman history of New Ross and the south-east. The first panel was finished in 2002; the collection has grown steadily since, with the final panel still on the frame.
The panels run chronologically. They open with early Celtic society and Brehon law, move through the Norman landings and the rise of William Marshal – one of medieval Europe’s most formidable knights, whose marriage to Isabel de Clare is among the set’s best-known scenes – and on into the civic and maritime life of the town: the port, the town walls, St Mary’s Church. It is as much a record of a community’s patience as of medieval history.
What to expect inside
The exhibition is self-paced, with an audio guide included that explains both the history in each scene and the stitching behind it. Natural light is kept low to protect the textiles, so the room feels quiet and museum-like; allow around 45 minutes to an hour to take it in properly. It is fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry and accessible toilets. Nearby on the quay, a sculpture marks President John F. Kennedy’s 1963 visit to New Ross.
Getting there and nearby
New Ross is served by Bus Éireann, and if you are driving, follow signs for the town centre and use the public pay-and-display car parks along the main streets – on-site parking is limited, but several are within a five-minute walk.
The obvious pairing is right across the road: the Dunbrody Famine Ship. Beyond that, Johnstown Castle and its grounds make an easy add-on via the N25, and the Wexford coast is within reach for a longer day. Check rostapestry.ie for current opening and to arrange a visit for a larger group.