DUBLINTIMEMACHINE: On this day in 1216 CE, the Magna Carta Hiberniae, or Great Charter of Ireland, was issued by Henry III. Often called the Irish Magna Carta, it was an attempt to extend the same protections and reforms granted to English barons in 1215 to those living in the English-controlled Lordship of Ireland.
This historic bill of rights aimed to address grievances related to feudal abuses, taxation, and the rights of freemen, much as the original Magna Carta had done for potentially regicidal noblemen in England under King John.
Copying the other lads homework they just substituted ‘Thames, the Medway’ for ‘the Anna Liffey’, and ‘the whole of England’ with ‘the whole of Ireland’, and ‘London’ with ‘Dublin’ etc.
While the Magna Carta Hiberniae sought to solidify English rule in Ireland by appeasing the Anglo-Norman barons, its impact in Ireland was not as lasting as its English counterpart. The charter primarily benefited those living under English law and had little bearing on the Gaelic Irish population, who remained governed by their own traditions.
Sadly the original document was lost to the mists of time. A 14th century copy appeared in the “Red Book of the Exchequer” of Ireland, published in the 14th century. But like many other irreplaceable legal and genealogical gems, this copy was burned in the Four Courts fires of 1922.
The Magna Carta Hiberniae’s message and meaning was moulded into our legal system and still is referenced under the Statute Law Revision Act 2007. In fact during an t- Uachtaráin Mickey D’s 2014 visit to the UK he referenced it whilst addressing parliament.
<pre><code class="language-*">Rob Buchanan is a Dublin-based historian, writer, and storyteller known for bringing Ireland’s forgotten and hidden stories to life. As the creator of the popular Dublin Time Machine project, he digs deep into Irish history, Celtic traditions, and the lesser-known corners of the island — from ancient ceremonial sites and emigration tales to secret historical events that big guidebooks overlook.
A regular contributor to SecretIreland.ie, Rob combines rigorous research with vivid storytelling drawn from years of exploration and local insights. His guides help travelers and history lovers discover the real Ireland — filled with genuine craic, hidden heritage, and surprising connections across every county.
When not uncovering the next lost tale or updating 2026 discoveries, Rob enjoys sharing Ireland’s rich past through poetry, prose, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path history.</code></pre>
