A new state-of-the-art virtual reality experience has been unveiled at Kildare Town Heritage Centre following investment of €156,000 by Fáilte Ireland alongside financial support of €44,000 from Kildare County Council.
The "Legends of Kildare" immersive 3D experience will transport visitors back in time to discover the heritage and mythology associated with Kildare. It is expected to draw an additional 30,000 visitors to Kildare Town Heritage Centre over the next five years and generate up to €1.3 million in revenue for the local area.
The stories of St. Brigid and mythological legend Fionn Mac Cumhaill will be brought to life through virtual reality as well as the history of Kildare's medieval sites including St. Brigid's Cathedral and Round Tower and the ancient Fire Temple. Kildare's horse racing heritage will also be showcased as part of the new experience, which will be made available in French, German and Chinese.
"Wonderful Installation"
Kildare mayor Suzanne Doyle stated, "This wonderful installation brings the art of Irish storytelling to a whole new dimension. The story captures the romance, heroism and tragedies of Kildare's ancient past that echo in the ruins of our abbeys and cathedrals. It will whet the appetite of visitors to travel further and enrich their experience when visiting our ancient sites, and highlight the prescience of Brigid."
An Enhancement Of "Tourism Appeal"
Meanwhile, Ireland's Ancient East manager at Fáilte Ireland Derek Dolan commented, "Ireland's Ancient East has the most extensive range of built heritage in Europe including tombs older than the pyramids, historic castles, ruined abbeys, great fortresses and amazing sites like St Brigid’s Cathedral and Round Tower here in Kildare. At Fáilte Ireland, we are always looking for opportunities to stimulate the development of brilliant visitor experiences, and the new experience at Kildare Town Heritage Centre will enhance the county's tourism appeal. This investment as part of Ireland's Ancient East will deliver significant growth in the number of visitors coming to Kildare, bringing greater spend and revenue to the area."
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