The Galway Archaeological and Historical Society was founded in 1900 to promote the study of the archaeology and history of the west of Ireland. Since 1900 the Society has published 60 volumes of its Journal of the Galway Archaeological and Historical Society.

The Society also runs a lecture series in Galway City, as well as outings to various sites of interest during the summer. It is also involved in lobbying national and local authorities in relation to heritage matters relating to the City and County of Galway.