Step into the past at Craggaunowen during Heritage Week

The cultural, built and natural heritage of Craggaunowen and county Clare will be celebrated during Heritage Week 2023 from August 12 to 20.

‘Living Heritage’ is the theme of this year's programme of events during which members of the public will be invited to the popular visitor attractions of Craggaunowen to explore the traditions and practices, knowledge and skills passed down through generations.

Craggaunowen will host reenactors and tradespeople from across Clare who will demonstrate the crafts and traditions of old, including spinning and weaving, bread and butter making, candle making, and wool dyeing, while stories of mythology and the history of the Ogham stones will be recounted. The green in front of the 16th century Craggaunowen Castle will host The Age of the Vikings, a celebration of Viking culture, crafts, customs and creativity.

Cllr. Joe Cooney, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, commented, “The Heritage Council first began coordinating the week in 2005 and since then it has gone from strength to strength with over 1000 events and projects organised across the country each year. The initiative serves as a reminder to the people of Clare of the wonderful heritage and history that surrounds them. The events at Craggaunowen and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park are always a highlight as they allow visitors to step back in time to sample the old crafts and traditions that were once present in every Irish town and village.”

“Heritage Week offers us an ideal opportunity to invite people sample what it would have been like living in Ireland down through the centuries,” commented Adrienne O’Flynn, Sales and Marketing Manager for Clare Tourism East.

She continued, “Through our comprehensive programme of events we hope to promote a greater sense of awareness and appreciation of Clare’s built and natural heritage, as well as a greater understanding of our shared cultural past. We have proudly participated in Heritage Week for many years, and we look forward to once again welcoming history and heritage enthusiasts of all ages to Craggaunowen and Bunratty next week.”