MORE THAN 1,550 heritage events are taking place around the country over the next three days with a view to protect and enhance the richness, quality and diversity of Ireland’s national heritage.

National Heritage Week is providing an exciting look at Irish culture, and will see everything from archaeology, traditional skills, and historical re-enactments explored – and heritage properties not usually open to the public unlocked.

More than 600,000 people are expected to take part in the festival and most of the events are free. A list of events can be checked by location and category through the free iPhone / Android Heritage Week Event App or through heritageweek.ie.

Check out some of the highlights for today…

Public Lecture: New Discoveries at Saint Canice’s Cathedral Close, Kilkenny
24 August : 20:00 – 22:00 free
The Heritage Council sponsored by the Saint Canice’s Cathedral Close Archaeological Project has unearthed exciting new discoveries that have much to tell us about the origins of the city and the development of the Close. These are to be revealed for the first time at the event – so don’t miss out!
Venue: Heritage Council, Church Lane Kilkenny, Co Kilkenny.

Laois – Wildlife Illustration Workshop with Gordon D’Arcy

24 August, 11:00 -13:00 (free)

Learn how to draw Irish wildlife with well-known author and illustrator Gordon D’Arcy in this wildlife drawing workshop for children. Venue: Durrow Library, The Courthouse, Durrow. Laois County Libraries. Tel: 057 8674312.

Discover Tara: Ireland’s Ancient Capital
24 August : 08:00 – 23:00 (€1.99 special offer of one-third off for Heritage Week)

Walk in the footsteps of High Kings and heroes and experience the legends, rituals and monuments of Tara for yourself. Download the audio from our website to enjoy at your own pace; the family pack includes puzzles, colouring and things to do.
Venue: Hill of Tara, Tara, Co Meath

Uploaded by HeritageWeek

National Heritage Week 2012 will run from the 18th to the 26th of August