A prehistoric lump of bog butter thought to have been a gift to the gods was discovered in County Meath, Ireland.

The lump, which has a smell of a strong cheese, is believed to be about 2,000 years old. It was unearthed by turf cutter Jack Conway while he was working in a bog in Ireland.

The find was given to the National Museum of Ireland, where it will be preserved.

According to Andy Halpin, assistant keeper in the museum’s Irish Antiquities Division, the find, although not unusual, was significant for its location.

“These bogs in those times were inaccessible, mysterious places,” he said.

Halpin said the discovery, more than 3 meters below the surface, may never have been intended to be dug up, as there was no evidence of a cover on it.

And though Irish celebrity chef Kevin Thornton has revealed he tasted the ancient butter, archaeological experts are reluctant to do so as the material is crumbly and the distinctive smell resembles strong cheese.

“Theoretically the stuff is still edible - but we wouldn’t say it’s advisable,” Mr Halpin said.