Belated birthday:Celebrations to mark the 150th birthday of the Natural History Museum in Dublin have been deferred because the attraction remains shut after an accident last month.
Officials ordered a safety audit after eleven people were hospitalised following the dramatic collapse of an old limestone staircase in the building. A number of events, including the launch of a special exhibition and a commemorative stamp, were due to take place next week but have been postponed until further notice. "The programme of anniversary events have had to be deferred until a later date when the museum re-opens," a spokeswoman said.
Footprints in the sand
Egyptian archaeologists have found what they said could be the oldest human footprint in history. "This could go back about two million years," said Zahi Hawass, secretary general of the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities. Archaeologists found the footprint, imprinted on mud and then hardened into rock, while exploring a prehistoric site in Siwa, a desert oasis. Scientists are using carbon tests on plants found in the rock to determine its exact age.
Psst. . .
Rent bikes for the family and spin around Europe's largest park. Phoenix Park Bike Hire has opened just inside the Parkgate Street entrance. It costs €5 per hour and €15 per half day. Tel: 086 2656258
TODOTODAY: If you are around Kilkenny, get out on the road to see off the 500 or so cyclists on the 800 km Tour of Ireland cycle rally.
For more events listings see: www.ireland.com/theticket/summerevents
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