Cork celebrates two decades of open days at city's heritage sites

Cork’s Heritage Open Day celebrated 20 years on Saturday.

The festival commemorates the architecture and history of the built heritage of Cork city, and more than 35 buildings opened their doors free of charge.

The event is the only one of this size and scale nationwide and includes walks, talks, and exhibitions throughout the city.

Cork Heritage Open Day was initially an event for European Capital of Culture in 2005, having grown over the last two decades to showcase the city and its magnificent heritage.

Several buildings took part in Cork Heritage Open Day for the first time this year, including the Cork Butter Museum; Cork’s YMCA; St Luke’s Church in Douglas; and the Firemen’s Rest.

Niamh Twomey, who is a heritage officer with Cork City Council, said that the event this year was “one of our most exciting so far”.

“It [was] wonderful to see all the buildings who are with us year on year and to welcome the new buildings to our programme,” said Ms Twomey.

“I’m very grateful to all the building owners, historians, and volunteers who give their time and expertise so generously.”

The event provided attendees with the opportunity to explore buildings that are not routinely open to the public, such as the Quaker Meeting House, Military Museum Collins Barracks, Heineken Ireland, Riverstown House, Cork Baptist Church, and the North Monastery.

The programme further featured a wide range of family-friendly events, including a Victorian classroom experience in the Old Cork Waterworks and an exploration of the naval vessel LÉ Aoibhinn.

The event was the beginning of Heritage Week 2025, which is taking place from August 16-24 and which focuses on the building blocks of our heritage.

For more information on events that are taking place for Heritage Week 2025, visit: https://www.heritageweek.ie/.