Call for public support as Ireland’s Cahir Castle vies for title of Europe’s favourite filming location

Cahir Castle, which is managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and has starred in multiple film and TV blockbusters, has been shortlisted for the European Film Commissions Network (EUFCN) Location Award 2021. The Irish public are being asked to show their support for what is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles as it vies for the prestigious title of Europe’s favourite filming location.

Every year, the European Film Commissions Network (EUFCN) chooses a shortlist of five European locations for the prestigious EUFCN Location Award. Nominated by Screen Ireland as the location for The Green Knight, Cahir Castle has captured the imagination of multiple film-makers thanks to its defensive castle design, which was at the cutting edge in the thirteenth century. In David Lowery’s 2021 film – a fantasy retelling of the famous medieval story of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight – Cahir Castle features as the Camelot of Arthurian legend, a role it has starred in before in the 1981 film Excalibur.

Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW), Patrick O’Donovan, T.D. said:

“The OPW cares for 780 of Ireland’s most iconic heritage sites. As part of its mission, it is proud to offer access to its sites to filmmakers from all over the world, working closely with film crews to maintain the highest standards of safety, integrity and authenticity.

Cahir Castle stands proudly on a rocky island on the River Suir and much of the original structure remains, so it is no surprise that film-makers are drawn to this unique and impressive location.

Being shortlisted for this esteemed award helps to showcase Cahir Castle to a wider audience. The general public now has the chance to vote and support Cahir Castle in bringing home the gong.

Winning this award will help to secure deserved recognition for one of Ireland’s stunning locations as well as to the dedicated OPW team of heritage and conservation experts committed to restoring, preserving and promoting Ireland’s cultural heritage for present and future generations to enjoy.”

The public winner of the EUFCN Location Award 2021 will be determined by the general public’s vote. Everyone can vote online at Location Awards 2021 . Voting closes on Jan. 31, 2022. The winner of the EUFCN Location Award 2021 will be revealed in Berlin at the European Film Market 2022 in February.

Find out more about the awards here: EUFCN - Location Awards 2021 - Finalists .

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For further information, please contact pressoffice@opw.ie

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