The mystery surrounding the contents of the "time capsule" buried under O’Connell Street in Dublin for over 200 years will remain for weeks as the artefact undergoes cleaning and conservation treatment
The stone-and-metal box was uncovered on Tuesday, October 2nd, under the site formerly occupied by Nelson's Pillar during an archaeological excavation by Mr Frank Miles on the site of the new Millennium Spire.
National Museum of Ireland said this evening conservation work on the box is being carried out at the Collins Barracks branch of the museum. It is about 2.5 feet long and 1 foot 6 inches wide with a three-inches thick limestone lid.
The Museum described an inscription on the outside of the box as having historical references about the deeds and victories of Lord Nelson and the laying of the foundation stone of the Nelson Pillar on February 15th, 1808 by the Duke of Richmond.
The inscription also contains a list of Dublin city dignitaries and subscribers including the Lord Mayor James Vance, two members of the La Touche family as well as Arthur Guinness.
The Museum has so far refused to speculate on the contents of the box beyond suggesting the alcove under the metal plague may be filled with coins and/or other memorabilia.
But it said this could only be confirmed after the conservation work is finished and the box is opened in controlled conditions.
Admiral Nelson died at Trafalgar in 1805, and work on the Pillar began in 1808.