Astronomical observatories edge closer to world heritage status
The Historic Astronomical Observatories of Ireland have been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List, marking a significant step toward global recognition.
The cross-border initiative includes Armagh Planetarium and Observatory in Armagh, Birr Castle and Demesne in Offaly, and Dunsink Observatory House in Dublin.
Announced on World Heritage Day, April 18, the inclusion makes the Historic Astronomical Observatories of Ireland the fourth entry on Ireland’s Tentative List.
The announcement was made by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan, and Minister of State for the Office of Public Works Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran.
Ireland’s other Tentative List sites include the Neolithic Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo, the Transatlantic Cable Ensemble (Kerry and Canada), and the Royal Sites of Ireland, which encompass Dún Ailinne in County Kildare, Hill of Uisneach in County Westmeath, Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, Rathcroghan in County Roscommon, and Tara in County Meath.
Minister James Browne TD said, “Increasing the number of UNESCO World Heritage Properties is a heritage commitment in our Programme for Government. This addition of the Astronomical Observatories of Ireland to the Tentative List is the first formal step on an exciting journey towards World Heritage inscription for three remarkable observatories.”
Kevin “Boxer” Moran, Minister of State, added, “This is an important achievement for the Historic Astronomical Observatories of Ireland. It is a very positive showcase of cross border co-operation between the relevant authorities on the island of Ireland. The OPW looks forward to supporting the bid in the future as it progresses for submission to UNESCO for inscription as a World Heritage Property.”
The UNESCO World Heritage List, managed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, currently comprises 1,223 properties recognized for their outstanding universal cultural and natural value.
Ireland has two inscribed World Heritage properties: Brú na Bóinne and Sceilg Mhichíl.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List currently includes 1,223 properties forming part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value.
Ireland has two properties on the World Heritage list Brú na Bóinne and Sceilg Mhichíl.
