Carlow County Museum Co Carlow - Courtesy Carlow County Museum / Ireland's Content Pool

Explore Carlow's Fascinating History at Carlow County Museum

Carlow County Museum in the heart of Carlow Town's Cultural Quarter is a popular attraction for anyone interested in the area's rich history. Discover the heritage of the local area through a range of fascinating displays and exhibitions.

Located in the centre of Carlow Town's Cultural Quarter, Carlow County Museum is a popular tourist attraction and a valuable resource for anyone interested in the area's fascinating past. The museum is housed in the former Presentation Convent, a beautiful historic building that has been carefully restored to its former glory.

The museum's displays and exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, from the town's rich industrial heritage to its famous sons and daughters. Some of the museum's most interesting artefacts include the 6m carved pulpit from Carlow Cathedral, items from Carlow's Sugar Factory, and the smoking pipe of Captain Myles Keogh, who was killed at the Battle of Little Bighorn.

Other highlights include displays relating to John Tyndall, the Carlow scientist who discovered the greenhouse effect, a 340 million-year-old fossilized squid, and a display based upon St Willibrord, an Anglo-Saxon monk who trained in Carlow before becoming the Patron Saint of Luxembourg and the Netherlands.

The museum also has a display dedicated to Kevin Barry, an 18-year-old medical student who was executed for his role in the Irish War of Independence. Visitors can see Kevin Barry's last cigarette and death mask on display.

In addition to the museum's fascinating displays, there are many nearby attractions to explore. The town of Carlow is home to many historic buildings and landmarks, including the Carlow Castle and the Brownshill Dolmen. The nearby Altamont Gardens and Borris House are also popular destinations for those interested in history and architecture.

Finally, for those interested in food and drink, the town of Carlow offers many excellent restaurants and pubs, serving up delicious local cuisine and refreshing pints of Guinness.

In conclusion, Carlow County Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the area's rich history and heritage. With a range of fascinating displays and exhibitions, as well as many nearby attractions to explore, there's something for everyone in this picturesque part of Ireland. So why not plan a visit today and discover all that Carlow has to offer?