Welcome to episode eight of Pieces of History.

I’m joined by Emma McAlister, a PhD candidate at Queen’s University Belfast, to explore the fascinating world of Objects and Material Culture.

Together, we’ll uncover how historical objects shape our understanding of the past, from religious relics to hidden places of worship. We’ll discuss artifacts like the Shrine of St. Patrick’s Hand and the Relic of St. Anthony, examining their significance and the devotion they inspired. We’ll also journey to Amsterdam’s Our Lord in the Attic Museum, a secret church that tells a powerful story of faith and tolerance in the early modern era.

Beyond these historical treasures, we’ll reflect on the role of museums today - how they preserve, interpret, and present artifacts in an ever-changing world. What does the future hold for these institutions? How do we decide what is worth preserving?

Join us as we explore the stories behind these objects and what they reveal about history, belief, and identity.

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