List of World Heritage Sites in the Republic of Ireland
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World Heritage Sites in Ireland are specific locations that have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Programme list of sites of outstanding cultural or natural importance to the common heritage of humankind. World Heritage Ireland is responsible for 'cultural' sites as part of their wider responsibility towards the historic environment.
Existing sites
Brú na Bóinne
Located in County Meath, the site is a complex of Neolithic chamber tombs, standing stones, henges and other prehistoric enclosures, some dating from as early as 35th century BC - 32nd century BC. The site predates the Egyptian pyramids and was built with sophistication and a knowledge of science and astronomy, which is most evident in the passage grave of Newgrange. The site is often referred to as the "Bend of the Boyne" and this is often (incorrectly) taken to be a translation of Brú na Bóinne (Palace of the Boyne). It was declared as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
Skellig Michael
Situated off the coast of west County Kerry, Skellig Michael was probably founded in the 7th century, for 600 years the island was a centre of monastic life for Irish Christian monks. The Gaelic monastery, which is situated almost at the summit of the 230-metre-high rock became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It is one of Europe's better known but least accessible monasteries.
Since the extreme remoteness of Skellig Michael has until recently discouraged visitors, the site is exceptionally well preserved. The very spartan conditions inside the monastery illustrate the ascetic lifestyle practiced by early Irish Christians. The monks lived in stone 'beehive' huts (clocháns), perched above nearly vertical cliff walls.
Tentative List
The Ireland ‘Tentative List’ comprises sites which may be nominated for inscription over the next 5–10 years.[1]
- The Burren - County Clare.
- Céide Fields - County Mayo.
- Clonmacnoise - County Offaly
- Dublin - County Dublin
- Hill of Tara - County Meath
See also
References and footnotes
- ↑ "Tentative List - Ireland: Short Description of Properties" (PDF). 2010. Retrieved 2015-01-19.