The 50th anniversary of Craggaunowen was marked on Friday when past and present members of staff gathered at the County Clare visitor attraction.
Established by John Hunt of The Hunt Collection in 1974, the open-air museum features a 16th-century castle and a reconstructed “crannog” showing how Celts lived, worked, and defended themselves. The Brendan Boat, built in 1976 by explorer Tim Severin who successfully completed a 4,500-mile transatlantic crossing, also is on permanent display at Craggaunowen.
Craggaunowen has undergone significant investment since last year’s transfer of management of the site to Clare County Council, which has contributed to a 32% increase in visitor numbers in 2024 compared to the 2023 tourist season.
Pauline Lenihan, Manager of Craggaunowen commented, “The 50th anniversary celebration was an enjoyable and emotional occasion for everyone who attended including former and current staff, Elected Members and the local community, which has played a key role in the development of Craggaunowen. Everyone connected with the attraction is rightly proud of what has been achieved here over the past half a century.”
Ms. Lenihan continued, “As we reach the end of the 2024 season at Craggaunowen, we are excited about future plans to further enhance the visitor experience at the site as such investment will encourage more tourists to come and explore the roots of the people, homesteads, animals and artifacts of our Celtic ancestors of over 1,000 years ago which have touched and shaped how we live today.”
According to Stephen Hanley, General Manager of Clare Tourism East, “Throughout the 2000s, Craggaunowen, the once iconic bronze age heritage park was in decline. Its appeal, once captivating domestic and international visitors, was waning and it was apparent significant investment was required in order to save the attraction. Recognising the need for investment, Clare County Council assumed ownership of the site in 2023, and a comprehensive overhaul commenced.”
Works completed during 2024 include the upgrade of Craggaunowen’s signature crannógs and woven hut lake dwellings, along with the bridge that connects them to the remainder of the site. A fairy trail has been developed and wayfinding signage throughout the surround woodlands has been introduced, while significant upgrades to the public carpark, public toilet facilities, fencing and pathways have been carried out. The development of a new playground themed on St. Brendan’s Voyage is planned for 2025.
“Craggaunowen is an important landmark on the Clare tourism landscape, and it is a key contributor to the local economy,” explained Mr. Hanley. “With the support of the Hunt Museum Trust and the Elected Members of Clare County Council, we are committed to continuing our programme of investment in one of Ireland’s most important and best known archaeological open-air museums. By combining historical immersion, engaging interactions, and a serene natural setting, we aim to make every visit to Craggaunowen a truly unforgettable experience.”
Visit www.craggaunowen.ie for more.