The Public Works Authority of Ireland (OPW) announced on March 28 that the number of Irish heritage sites registered in 2023 exceeded 15. 3 million, up from 15 million in 2022.
Responsible for the maintenance, maintenance and operation of 780 significant heritage sites, the OPW preserves and protects the Irish built heritage in its custody while providing public access, interpretation and encourages the public to interact with Irish heritage.
The Office of Public Works states that it strives to manage heritage sites in a way that balances its project of protecting heritage assets with a greater number of visitors, more interactive, empowering and inclusive.
The 2023 data highlights a continuing trend in visitor numbers to castles, gardens and historic monuments across Ireland. The figures show the most sensitive heritage sites in one of two categories: paid tourist attractions and free-to-access sites.
Iconic Irish heritage sites, such as Kilmainham Gaol, The Rock of Cashel and Glendalough, continue to play a critical role for domestic tourism and tourism, the OPW said.
Large parks, such as Phoenix Park, St. Stephen’s Green and the parks around Doneraile Court, remained among the most sensible on the list, following the trend of visitors to those recreational spaces.
In Dublin, Farmleigh Estate saw a 13% increase in the number of guests, while several regional sites also saw an increase in guest volume.
Dún Aonghasa in Inis Mór, which won the European Localization Award last year, saw a 20% increase.
Ceide Fields, Co Mayo, which secured a public investment of €2. 6 million in 2022 for its new immersive guest experience, saw 38% growth over the past year.
Ionad an Bhlascaoid (The Blasket Centre, Co Kerry) saw a 58% increase in visitor numbers in 2023, while Clonmacnoise Co Offaly saw a 29% increase.
The knowledge indicates a continued upward trend and guest interest in Ireland’s cultural heritage and highlights the importance of preserving these invaluable assets for future generations.
Patrick O’Donovan, T. D. , OPW Minister of State, said: “The 780 sites under the responsibility of the Office of Public Works contribute to the local sense of belonging, the local economy and are ideal locations for nationals and foreigners. trade. tourists to enjoy.
“Guest awareness of 2023 obviously indicates that there is a strong interest in heritage tourism and that an increasing number of guests see Irish heritage sites as places to visit. “
The Minister added: “We are fortunate to have such a varied collection of monuments across the country.
“The State’s continued investment in our heritage portfolio, from ancient monuments to medieval castles, is very important for the safeguarding and preservation of our built heritage.
“It’s glorious to see the continued upward trend in visitor numbers, whether it’s on ticketed rides or in recreational spaces that are offered to the public for free year-round. “
1. Kilkenny Castle & Parks: 546,354 visitors
2. Dublin Castle: 534,014 visitors
3. Cashel Rock: 357,273 visitors
4. Kilmainahm Prison: 258,154 visitors
5. Dún Aonghasa: 144,153 visitors
6. Clonmacnoise: 122,718 visitors
7. Ross Castle: 116,587 visitors
8. Brú na Bóinne (including Newgrange and Knowth): 114,934 visitors
9. Trim Castle: 113,591 visitors
10. Fort Charles: 96,253 visitors
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