Kildare landmark goes 'as Gaeilge' for Heritage Week

CASTLETOWN House and Parklands outside of Celbridge has been chosen as one of 18 heritage sites the Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced for a series of tours ‘as Gaeilge’ as part of National Heritage Week.

This initiative celebrates the Irish language, offering visitors a unique experience of Ireland’s built heritage.

This special tour of the 304-year-old Palladian mansion will take place at noon on 20 August.

The tour is free of charge, but must be booked at their website.

Visitors will now have the opportunity to join in free Irish language tours at OPW locations, guided by knowledgeable staff who will share interesting insights and stories in our native language.

From historical buildings to breath-taking locations, these tours offer a valuable cultural experience for all who attend.

Participating locations include Anne’s Grove Gardens, Altamont Gardens, Áras an Uachtaráin, Castletown House, Donegal Castle, Doneraile Court and Estate, Emo Court, Glebe Gallery, Hore Abbey, Kilkenny Castle, Kilmainham Gaol Museum, Magazine Fort, National Botanic Gardens, Portumna Castle, Pearse Museum, Rathfarnham Castle, Royal Hospital Kilmainham and Sligo Abbey.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran said: “National Heritage Week offers a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to engage with Ireland’s rich cultural and built heritage. This year, I am delighted to announce that the OPW will be offering tours in Irish so that individuals, groups and families can experience our heritage sites through the Irish language”.

Heritage Week runs from the 15 to 23 August.

For more information and a full list of events visit heritageireland.ie