Armagh will throw open the doors to some of its favourites and most-loved buildings as it takes part in this year’s European Open Heritage Days.
The public will be invited to come and have a look inside this Saturday and Sunday, September 10 and 11.
History and culture will be brought to life with over 300 property openings and events across Northern Ireland as a whole.
This year’s programme features a wide variety of special events such as walking tours, history re-enactments and film screenings.
With all events free of charge and many family friendly, everyone can take the opportunity to step back in time.
Communities Minister Paul Givan said: “Organised by my Department, it is very apt that this year’s theme across Europe is ‘Heritage Communities’. Nurturing such communities is vital if we are to ensure that our heritage is well protected into the future and able to support community cohesion and a strong economy.”
Locations in the Armagh area opening for the weekend include Armagh County Museum and the Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum.
The Minister said: “Armagh County Museum, the oldest county museum in Ireland, is set in Armagh’s beautiful Georgian tree lined Mall. The unique character of the Museum’s architecture makes it one of the most distinctive buildings in the city. Its collections capture centuries of stories relating to the people who lived, worked and had connections with this famous city and historic county.
“Discover a rich and varied legacy revealed in objects ranging from prehistoric artefacts to household items from a bygone age. There are military uniforms, wedding dresses, ceramics, natural history specimens and railway memorabilia.
“An impressive art collection includes works by many well known Irish artists such as AE Russell, John Luke and JB Vallely.
The Royal Irish Fusiliers Museum is in Sovereign’s House; built in 1810 it was originally home to the Mayor of Armagh and is less than 30 metres from the Court House. It is a fine example of a Georgian listed building.
“The collection contains the uniforms, medals, regalia and the two Victoria Crosses won by the Regiment. The current exhibition “Der Tag” highlights the Battle of the Somme and it’s aftermath.
“The building has two floors, the ground floor shows the history of the regiment and the first floor displays our current exhibition.
“The weekend is going from strength to strength each year with over 52,000 people turning out last year. Whilst all events are free some require pre-booking. To avoid disappointment check out http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/ehod and @ehodni on Twitter now.”
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