Obituary of Raghnall Ó Floinn

The Board of Directors, staff, and members of the Irish Museums Association (IMA) extend their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Raghnall Ó Floinn, esteemed archaeologist, scholar, and former Director of the National Museum of Ireland, following his death on 10 December 2024. His passing marks a great loss to the Irish museum and archaeological communities and to the many who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Raghnall’s career with the National Museum of Ireland began in 1976 as an Assistant Keeper in the Irish Antiquities Division. Over the course of four decades, he made a lasting mark on this National Cultural Institution, becoming its first Head of Collections in 2003 and serving as Director from 2013 until his retirement in 2018. Under his leadership, the museum navigated a period of change, with innovative policies, landmark exhibitions, and demonstrated a steadfast commitment to safeguarding Ireland's cultural heritage.

With a passion for archaeology that began as a teenager, Raghnall graduated from University College Dublin with an MA in Celtic Archaeology and was internationally recognised for his scholarship in areas such as early medieval Ireland, Viking studies, and medieval reliquaries. His publications, including Ireland and Scandinavia in the Early Viking Age and Treasures of the National Museum of Ireland - Irish Antiquities, enriched and advanced understanding of Irish archaeology and history. He curated Medieval Ireland 1150 to 1550 which opened in 2002, creating a world class exhibition which met the highest academic standards while expertly explaining a complicated history to the general visitor.

Throughout his career, he not only shared his passion for Ireland's past but was equally dedicated to the future of museums, championing public access to cultural heritage and opposing the introduction of entrance fees, which he viewed as a fundamental right, even during times of financial challenge.

Raghnall was also a kind and generous mentor, colleague, and friend. His warmth, humour, and dedication touched many of those who worked with him, from his colleagues at the National Museum to members of the wider Irish Museum sector.

IMA Chair and former colleague Lar Joye said "Raghnall was a gentleman, a wonderful colleague to work with and was extremely generous with his time and knowledge as Head of Collections and Director of the National Museum. He is a huge loss to the museum community, and we pass on our heartfelt condolences to Raghnall’s wife Edel, his daughter Sorcha, his son Muiris, and his extended family”.