The Celtic culture expanded across Europe from Turkey to Ireland between the eighth and first centuries BCE. Most of these territories were conquered by the Romans beginning in the first century BCE. Ireland never came under Roman domination and maintained its uniquely  Celtic roots.

This exhibit highlighted some of the earlier European archeological discoveries as well as some Irish and British artifacts.

The harp is the national symbol of the present day Republic of Ireland. It is the only country in the world that has a musical instrument as a national symbol. It reflects the importance of the arts and music to the Irish people.

In contrast, the Great Seal of the United States features an American bald eagle with its wings spread, holding 13 arrows and an olive branch representing the balance between peace and war. The eagle is more of a power symbol.

In ancient Ireland, brehons were known by their traditional emblem of office; a torque of precious metals, often gold. It was believed that if the brehon was swayed by lies, the torque would squeeze their neck.