Today marks the start of National Heritage Week, which will see events run across the country until 26 August.
More than 1,5000 events form part of the week’s programme.
The majority of the events are free-of-charge, with over 600,000 people expected to take part.
This year, the Heritage Council is focusing on the theme of Ireland's built heritage with many sites and houses being made accessible to the public for the first time.
The council says Ireland's built heritage supports over 35,000 jobs and adds up to €1.5bn to the economy.
The Heritage Council is also urging people to use the week’s events to start learning about the heritage of their local areas.
Events taking place this weekend include a tour of Galway's Latin Quarter, Fairytales At The Enchanted Wood in the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre as well medieval music in Tralee, Co Kerry and an open day in Cork city.
For more information on what is happening click here.
