Kerry’s architectural heritage and the county’s architectural landscape will be celebrated during the annual Architecture Kerry Festival this weekend.

A wide range of events including free guided tours and exhibitions form part of the programme for the event between September 24 and 26.

The aim of the festival, which is now in its fourth year and part of the Creative Ireland Kerry Programme, is to highlight the wide diversity of the architectural landscape in Kerry and to make some of the best-known sites of architectural significance in the county accessible to all ages. Due to COVID-19, Architecture Kerry has adapted its programme to reflect the need to run many of its events online in addition to some physical events.

Architecture Kerry has reached out to the public, to bring the people of Kerry together to be part of the celebration. During August, Kerry County Council ran a public photography competition called 'Shapes of Kerry' where people were asked to submit their favourite images of Kerry’s built environment. The top 20 winning entrants will be showcased for Architecture Kerry 2021. Kerry County Museum and Kerry County Library are also hosting exciting new events for Architecture Kerry exploring archaeology and the county’s rich archives and heritage.

Kerry County Council’s Architectural Conservation Officer, Victoria McCarthy, said the programme of events has something for everyone, even those with a passing interest in architecture.

"Following the success of the event last year, we decided to arrange a series of events again this year to promote and highlight some of our unique and attractive architectural heritage in the county," she said.

"Some festival favourites will be opening their doors for free guided tours. This year, Muckross Traditional Farms are partnering with Architecture to celebrate traditional crafts in Kerry with practical demonstrations."

The full programme of events is now available on the Kerry County Council website or via www.architecture.kerrycoco.ie. Victoria McCarthy can also be contacted directly at 066 7183793 or at ArchitectureKerry@kerrycoco.ie.