How Has The Visible Past Been Shaped By The Preservation Or Neglect Of The Built Heritage Of Ireland?
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“How has the visible past been shaped by the preservation or neglect of the built heritage of Ireland?”
Introduction
Historical sites, Irish Landscapes, New Grange and Tara
Easter Rising 1916, reasons for, effects it had.
Daniel OConnell
General Post Office
Plight for self rule, destruction and restoration of buildings
Royal hospital Kilmainham, Dublin Castle.
Irish heritage through the arts.
Conclusion
The visible past of Ireland is prevalent throughout the country. Financial, political and functional reasons contribute to the preservation and neglect of many historical landmarks and buildings. Neolithic sites encapsulate the essence of romanticism in Ireland, as do the many symbols associated with the country. Paintings, poems and songs personify the nationality of the country. The desire for freedom against British government rulings and the rebellions that have taken place epitomize how Irish culture and citizenship has been fiercely guarded over the years, resulting in the built heritage of Ireland that we know today.
The landscapes of Ireland are captivating and profound, with natural historical value. Newgrange is a Neolithic tomb which can be dated as far back as 3200BC. In 1967 an excavation was carried out, headed by Michael OKelley, whereby Newgrange was restored to its former glory. This resulted in the area becoming a very popular tourist attraction, known worldwide as an insightful example of Irelands ancient past.
Another natural site holding historical attributes is The Hill of Tara. A great archaeological site, it is said that this was at one time the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. It is home to many monuments, including the Stone of Destiny which was used when the High Kings in ancient times were crowned. Today there is much campaign to preserve the area from alteration as it is an important part of Irish heritage.
Irelands visible past can also be shown through its many buildings and stately homes. Many of which were destroyed by the nationalists during the Easter Risings of 1916, and the times that followed saw these landmarks being left to decay. The Easter Risings of 1916 occurred as a result of the resentment held by the Irish toward the dominant hand of British rule. The Easter risings, headed by James Connolly and Patrick Pearce, saw the masses retaliate against the forcefulness of the British Army to attain power and independence from the British Government. From the foot of the General Post Office (GPO) situated in Central Dublin, Pearce read out the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. The message in principle set out their beliefs that Irish countrymen deserved justice and equality.
This event followed on from years of struggle in the plight for self governance. “These demands were fuelled by the belief that government from London was oppressive, and by resentment at the advantages enjoyed by Anglo-Irish landlords.” (Laurence pg. 151.) In the early 19th century Daniel OConnell campaigned for Catholic emancipation. His devotion in repealing the Act of Union heralded him as a great Irish leader of the time and his dedication saw his followers erect “a vast monument in the form of an early medieval Irish round monastic tower” (Laurence pg 158)
The GPO served as the headquarters of the Nationalists during the Easter Risings, and as a result was extensively damaged by the British army. The emergence of the Free State saw the buildings restoration many years later. Outside, the original pillars still stand, history apparent with the visible bullet holes remaining. A statue of Cúchulainn, a historical mythical hero stands inside the building to commemorate the failure of the Easter risings. The building has throughout the years received much restoration.
Irelands plight for self rule produced much resentment towards Anglo-Irish residents of the important houses and buildings that had association with the British or had been produced by British architects. Many of these homes were burnt or destroyed. This prolific period of British animosity led to great buildings being left to decay, as the desire to omit association with Britain was heralded throughout the population. The Office of Public Works plays an important role in protecting and preserving Irelands built heritage. The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government serves to ensure the preservation of the natural heritage also. With the joining of the European Union in 1973, Ireland has prospered both financially and culturally. Much tourism has been brought to the country resulting in an admiration for the historical attributes the country maintains.
The Royal Hospital at Kilmainham, which dates back to the 17th Century, was left unattended for many years as it has been the headquarters for the British army and a retreat for their soldiers, during the early 20th Century. It is now the Irish Museum of Modern Art. Another example is that of Dublin Castle. It had been the seat of British rule until 1922,