This year’s Heritage Week was a wonderful celebration of Galway’s stories — past and present — as we explored the theme “Exploring Our Foundations.” Across the city, from hidden graveyards to digital museums, each event offered a new way to connect with the people, places, and traditions that have shaped Galway through the centuries.
The week began with a fascinating visit to the Computer and Communications Museum of Ireland (16 August), where visitors discovered the roots of our digital world — from vintage radios and typewriters to early computers and video games. It was a reminder that heritage isn’t only carved in stone or written in manuscripts, but also found in the technologies that changed how we live and communicate.
On 19 August, historian Ian Brophy led an intimate walking tour, Discovering Galway’s Hidden Franciscan Graveyard, guiding participants behind the walls of the Franciscan Abbey on St. Francis Street. Among 72 memorials dating back as far as the 16th century, Ian shared stories of the friars, families, and artistry that continue to echo through this peaceful corner of the city.
The exploration continued on 21 August with Hidden Wonders: Visit to the Zoology & Geology Museums at the University of Galway. Hosted by Emma Mulry and Ronan Harvey, this fully booked tour offered an up-close look at rare specimens — from Charles Darwin’s collections to the dazzling Blaschka glass models — along with live animal encounters and a journey through Ireland’s geological history.
On 22 August, Ronan Harvey led visitors through Galway’s military heritage during a tour of St. Patrick’s Garrison Church and the Renmore Barracks Military Museum. Participants explored the sacred and historical heart of Ireland’s Defence Forces, discovering artefacts, regimental colours, and powerful personal stories spanning from the Connaught Rangers to modern peacekeeping missions.
Heritage Week culminated in a deeply meaningful gathering on Saturday 23 August: the Peadar O’Dowd Memorial Event, honouring the life and work of historian, author, and founding member Peadar O’Dowd (1941–2024). Held across The Mick Lally Theatre and the Hall of the Red Earl, the day featured talks, music, film, and poetry, with contributions from local historians, writers, and performers — a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to uncovering and preserving Galway’s past.
From quiet graveyards and sacred spaces to university museums and digital heritage, this year’s programme reflected the extraordinary diversity of Galway’s cultural landscape.
We’re delighted to share a selection of photos from these memorable events — moments that capture the heart of Heritage Week 2025 and the community spirit that keeps Galway’s heritage alive.
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