Birr Castle and Demesne recently hosted a significant gathering when important stakeholders came together to agree on a shared vision for the future. The meeting was held to help achieve World Heritage Site recognition for the members of the Astronomical Observatories of Ireland; Birr Castle Demesne, Armagh Observatory and Dunsink Observatory. The objective of the three distinguished sites on the island of Ireland is to secure a coveted position on the World Heritage Tentative list, ultimately striving for UNESCO recognition of their rich astronomical heritage.

The first step would be the inclusion in the Irish Tentative List

Representatives from the town, local council, property owners, and members of the National Monuments Service World Heritage unit (all pictured above) convened alongside delegates from Armagh and Dunsink Observatories for the historical meeting. Peter Gallagher, Chair of Birr Castle Demesne remarked, “This collaborative effort signifies a remarkable opportunity to honour our shared astronomical heritage, propelling Birr, Dunsink, and Armagh onto the global stage.” At the meeting the World Heritage unit affirmed their commitment to guide the applicants in their journey towards UNESCO recognition of which the first step would be the inclusion in the Irish Tentative List.

For more information and updates on the Astronomical Observatories of Ireland and the World Heritage process visit birrcastle.com or any of the partner websites, follow Birr Castle Demesne on social media and or Linked-In, where the community can find information on each part of the journey here.