Artefacts belonging to Temple Bar's Smock Alley theatre (once known as Smoke Alley theatre) including part of the original building, have been discovered by archaeologists. The theatre, which dates from 1662, was the first of its kind in Dublin to secure a royal patent, issued following the death of Oliver Cromwell. The discovery constitutes a national monument and accordingly is being recorded in situ before transferral to the National Museum.
Led by Linzi Simpson, the archaeological team has unearthed sections of the building from each period of its existence, including an ornate mosaic tiled floor. In addition, timbers from the stage, a man's wig curler and wine bottles have been recovered. Plans totalling