Building on the success of Archaeology Scotland’s Adopt a Monument scheme, The Heritage Council introduced an Irish version of the initiative in 2015 and appointed Abarta Heritage as project managers. Through this scheme, Abarta Heritage works with community groups across Ireland, providing facilitation, expert advice, mentoring, training and ongoing support to help local people care for and promote their heritage.
The scheme creates a strong connection between communities and their local monuments, benefiting both. For participants, it offers the chance to work together at community level, become actively involved in local development, support regional tourism, business and employment, and explore and share the story of their area. For monuments, the scheme encourages regular care and maintenance, strengthens protection through increased local engagement, and improves interpretation and public understanding.
The scheme is open to monuments of any type and from any historical period, provided permission has been obtained from the landowner. Monuments that are owned by the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and managed by the Office of Public Works are not eligible. If there is any uncertainty about whether a monument qualifies, groups are encouraged to get in touch for advice
Any voluntary group or organisation can participate, including Tidy Towns committees, archaeological societies, local history groups, Men’s Sheds and community development organisations. At present, individual adoptions are not recommended, as the responsibilities involved are best shared by a group rather than managed by one person alone.
For more information; https://www.abartaheritage.ie/adopt-a-monument-ireland/?
