OPW launches latest volume of research in the Irish Heritage Studies Journal series

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to announce the launch of the second volume in the Irish Heritage Studies Journal series. This publication brings together new research on Ireland’s history and culture.

The peer reviewed publication features fresh insights into historic properties and collections in the care of the OPW. The journal also welcomes new research on the organisational history of the OPW itself, from its origins in 1831 in famine relief and loan administration to major building projects, archaeological conservation and civil engineering schemes in the twentieth century.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran said “The OPW is 195 years young, and as we approach our bicentenary, we are all the more curious to learn about our professional ancestry. The Irish Heritage Studies Journal plays a role in that, by welcoming and sharing new work on our own history, and the many histories represented in the properties and collections we are so proud to look after”.

This new volume showcases research submitted by leading experts including academics, heritage professionals, OPW staff and independent researchers. The essays cover a broad spectrum of subjects and historical periods, reflecting the richness of Ireland’s heritage. Some of the essays include Dr. Jane Fenlon as she examines seventeenth-century garden design at Kilkenny Castle. Ellen Brickley discusses the discovery and significance of 1920s graffiti at Oldbridge House, the site of the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre in Co. Meath. Melissa Melanephy surveys the use of Sligo Abbey’s belltower as a backdrop for impromptu nationalist flags while Dr. William Derham details current research on mid-eighteenth-century temporary wall hangings from Dublin Castle, recently acquired by the OPW for re-display.

The Irish Heritage Studies Journal continues to play a vital role in sharing new discoveries and perspectives on Ireland’s heritage. The journal is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring and preserving Ireland’s rich history.

Lynn Scarff of the Royal Irish Academy – and former Director of the National Museum of Ireland – said at the launch:

“The launch of the latest volume of the Irish Heritage Studies Journal by the OPW marks a significant milestone in our ongoing exploration and preservation of Ireland’s heritage. This publication not only brings together pioneering research from academics, heritage professionals and OPW staff, but also deepens our understanding of the histories embedded within Ireland’s iconic sites and collections.”

Irish Heritage Studies aims to be a vital resource for schools and colleges, heritage professionals and all those passionate about Ireland’s history and its social and physical fabric. Each volume will host new research findings focussing on aspects of Ireland’s most iconic heritage sites.

Irish Heritage Studies is available to purchase nationally from 6 May 2026 from OPW Heritage sites, bookshops, Government Publications (www.opw/publications) and Gandon Editions online https://gandoneditions.com/products/opw (free p&p in Ireland).

Submissions for future volumes are welcome at any time, please see the journal microsite www.opw/irish-heritage-studies and contact ihsjournal@opw.ie

For further information please see link - Irish Heritage Studies: The annual research journal of the Office of Public Works.

For more information, to arrange an interview or for images from the launch please contact pressoffice@opw.ie.

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NOTES:

Irish Heritage Studies, the annual research journal of the Office of Public Works, is co-published with Gandon Editions (https://gandoneditions.com/). The editor welcomes submissions and enquiries at any time.

The journal showcases original critical research rooted in the substantial portfolio of material culture in the care of or managed by the OPW: built heritage; historic, artistic, literary and scientific collections; the national and international histories associated with these places and objects; and its own long organisational history.

Papers contribute to a deeper understanding of this important collection of national heritage, and investigate new perspectives on aspects of its history. The journal is designed for an engaged public, specialist and professional readership.

For more details of the journal, its call for papers and personnel, please see the microsite here: https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/irish-heritage-studies/

The Office of Public Works (OPW)

The OPW provides accommodation for Government Services and manages much of the State’s property portfolio.

It cares for 780 heritage sites, including national monuments, historic parks, gardens and buildings. It is the Government’s principal engineering agency, providing an engineering service to the Flood Risk Management and Estate Portfolio Management functions of the OPW as well as to other Government Departments.