17th Century Courtyard Range opens at Portumna Castle

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courtyard at portumna castle
At the Official opening of the OPW's 17th Century Courtyard Range at Portumna Castle.

The 17th Century Courtyard Range at Portumna Castle has been officially opened by the Office of Public Works.

This conservation project lasted more than 3 years and included safeguarding the 17th century roof elements of this Castle Yard.

The project has resulted in new tea rooms, reception, visitor facilities and exhibition area at Portumna Castle.

Frank Shalvey, Head of OPW National Monuments said: “The OPW’s conservation aims for Portumna Castle are to preserve and enhance the significance of the Portumna Castle, Abbey and Gardens complex, its architectural and landscape fabric and the setting of the Castle for future generations; and to improve visitor access to, and the presentation and understanding of, this important visitor site”.

Deputy Seán Canney said: “Portumna Castle has a key role in supporting tourism in the East Galway area.  This is a wonderful site with a huge amount of history and character and this development by the OPW will build on the Castle’s existing strong profile with visitors, adding immensely to the visitor experience.

“I am confident that these new facilities will contribute significantly to tourism generation in the area and will support enhanced economic returns for the town of Portumna and surrounding areas.”

Cllr Jimmy McClearn, Deputy Sean Canney, Deputy Anne Rabbitte, Cllr Ivan Canning at the Official opening of the OPW’s 17th Century Courtyard Range at Portumna Castle.
At the Official opening of the OPW’s 17th Century Courtyard Range at Portumna Castle.