Youghal Clock Tower Clock Room

Heritage and Conservation

Heritage is a complex topic and covers a wide range of areas. The Heritage Act 1995 is the primary piece of legislation in Ireland governing Heritage. It is aimed at promoting public interest in Heritage and developing knowledge, appreciation, and protection of National Heritage.

National Heritage is defined as: monuments, archaeological objects, heritage objects, architectural heritage, flora, fauna, wildlife habitats, landscapes, seascapes, wrecks, geology, heritage gardens and parks, and inland waterways.

The Heritage Council (An Chomhairle Oidhreachta) was created as the result of the passing of the Heritage Act, and work in the public interest through the provision of funding, expert advice, education programmes, and advocacy.

Heritage belongs to everyone and is a part of our lives everyday, even if we don’t know it!  

Heritage and Conservation News

Tall, Grey Brick Building with wooden door entrance.
Heritage and Conservation
28 Mar 2025

Historic Buildings in Macroom and Castletownbere Receive Conservation Funding

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll has welcomed Heritage Council grants totalling €450,000 for conservation works on two historic buildings. Cork County Council successfully applied for funding for St Peter’s Church, Castletownbere and Macroom Castle Gate Lodge through the Historic Towns Initiative 2025.