Two significant locations with deep astronomical heritage—Birr Castle Demesne in Offaly and Dunsink Observatory in west Dublin—have been added to Ireland’s tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Properties today, coinciding with World Heritage Day celebrations.
Minister James Browne announced the additions, noting that increasing Ireland’s number of UNESCO World Heritage Properties remains a key government objective. Both sites are seeking the prestigious designation alongside Armagh Observatory in Northern Ireland, highlighting cross-border collaboration in preserving Ireland’s scientific heritage.
Birr Castle gained international renown when the “Great Leviathan of Parsonstown” telescope was constructed there in 1845, remaining the world’s largest telescope for 75 years. Dunsink Observatory, established in 1785, has served as Ireland’s premier astronomical research center and was home to celebrated scientists including mathematician and astronomer William Rowan Hamilton.
“These places of trailblazing scientific endeavour epitomise historical collaboration across the island,” Minister Browne stated. “They showcase our remarkable heritage on the global stage, and the journey of this project in the years will strengthen North-South cooperation greatly with shared benefits for these places and their communities.”
Dr. Eucharia Meehan, CEO of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) and custodian of Dunsink Observatory, called the tentative list inclusion “a fantastic recognition of the observatories’ unique, historical heritage.”
Professor Peter Gallagher, who serves as head of astronomy at DIAS, chairperson of Birr Castle Demesne, and director of DIAS Dunsink Observatory, emphasized that “we need to preserve as well as educate on the importance of science for society and to inspire the next generation.”
If eventually elevated to full UNESCO World Heritage status, these sites would join Brú na Bóinne, Sceilg Mhichíl (Skellig Michael), the Giant’s Causeway, and Gracehill Moravian Church Settlement as Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Properties. Other sites currently on Ireland’s tentative list include the Passage Tomb landscape in County Sligo, Valentia Island in County Kerry, and the “royal sites of Ireland.”
Sites must remain on the tentative list for at least one year before being eligible for nomination to the UNESCO World Heritage List.