UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland

Ireland UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The UNESCO Sites in Ireland have resulted from the recognition of 2 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland and 3 locations on the Ireland UNESCO tentative list. These touristic sites in Ireland are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations.

In addition to these 2 sites in the Ireland UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Ireland are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.

To help visitors discover these remarkable Ireland tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Ireland.

Ireland UNESCO Map

Click markers to show information and photo.

World Heritage Sites in Ireland Placeholder
World Heritage Sites in Ireland

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland

There are 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.

  • Brú na Bóinne – Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne
  • Sceilg Mhichíl

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ireland are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.

Brú na Bóinne – Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne

Brú na Bóinne – Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Ireland. This extraordinary archaeological complex is situated along the banks of the Boyne River and consists of three main megalithic passage tombs: Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth. These ancient structures were constructed over 5,000 years ago and are among the most significant and best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe. The megalithic tombs, adorned with intricate stone carvings and astronomical alignments, provide invaluable insights into the religious, social, and artistic practices of the prehistoric societies that once inhabited the area. The Brú na Bóinne site is a testament to the remarkable engineering and cultural achievements of our ancestors, and it continues to inspire awe and fascination among visitors from around the world.

Sceilg Mhichíl

Sceilg Mhichíl, also known as Skellig Michael, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located off the southwestern coast of Ireland. This awe-inspiring site consists of two rocky islets rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean. The larger of the two, known as the Great Skellig, houses an ancient monastic settlement that dates back to the 6th century. Perched precariously on the island’s steep cliffs, the monastery showcases remarkable stone beehive huts, terraces, and other structures, providing a glimpse into the isolated and ascetic lives of the monks who once inhabited this remote sanctuary. The breathtaking natural surroundings, including abundant seabird colonies and rugged coastal landscapes, further contribute to the captivating beauty and historical significance of Sceilg Mhichíl.

Ireland UNESCO tentative list

  1. The Royal Sites of Ireland: Cashel, Dún Ailinne, Hill of Uisneach, Rathcroghan Complex, and Tara Complex
  2. Transatlantic Cable Ensemble
  3. The Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo

Tours in Ireland

Our choices of tours in Ireland are divided into thematic features such as Dublin, Ring of Kerry, and Cliffs of Moher Experience.