Historic sites relating to the life and times of Brian Ború are promoted in a newly developed tourist trail marking the 1000th anniversary of the death of the last High King of Ireland.
The National Brian Ború Trail was launched this afternoon by Jimmy Deenihan, T.D., Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, at St. Flannan’s Cathedral, Killaloe, Co. Clare.
The event, which was hosted by Clare County Council in association with Killaloe Ballina 2014, was attended by National Brian Ború Programme representatives from Armagh, Clare, Dublin and Tipperary, the four main locations with connections to the life and High Kingship of Ireland’s best known historical figure.
The newly launched Trail features information on the important sites and buildings associated with Ború including Kincora where he was born, and Clontarf where he was killed following his victory over the Viking rulers of Dublin in 1014. Other sites of interest include St. Patrick's Cathedral in the City of Armagh where Ború is buried; the Rock of Cashel where he was crowned High King of Ireland; and Lough Derg and the River Shannon where his navy was located.
Speaking in Killaloe today, Minister Deenihan said the launch of the Brian Ború Trail complements a comprehensive nationwide programme of commemorative festivals and events taking place during 2014.
The Minister continued: “Brian Ború’s influence on Ireland’s political landscape is well known but his legacy is also evident throughout the physical landscape of the island with dozens of buildings linked to his fascinating story and that of his ancestors. For the first time, this National Trail promotes some of the buildings and sites most associated with Ború which I believe will help to promote tourism in the areas concerned and will also help to further promote the story of an individual who is an indelible part of this island's rich history."
Welcoming the new tourist guide, Ger Dollard, Chairperson of the Brian Ború 2014 Steering Group stated: “Significant work has been undertaken to ensure that the Brian Ború millennial anniversary is established as an important cultural and tourism activity which lays the platform for further cultural and tourism development in future years. This Guide will serve as a useful tool for promoting Brian Ború’s close links with Armagh, Clare, Dublin and Tipperary and in doing so help to promote heritage tourism in the areas concerned."
Produced by the Brian Ború 2014 Steering Group, the Brian Ború Trail guide is available at tourist offices, Council buildings and libraries throughout Ireland. Thousands of copies of the new guide are also being distributed to visitor attractions and accommodation providers throughout Ireland.
Visit www.brianborumillennium.ie to learn about the National Brian Ború Programme of events taking place during 2014.
