Clare County Council have officially opened their new Visitor Centre in Mountshannon in Co. Clare which celebrates the rich history of Inis Cealtra (Holy Island).
Inis Cealtra, on Lough Derg, is one of Ireland’s most significant ecclesiastical heritage sites and was once a monastic settlement. An Irish Round Tower, the ruins of several small churches, four high crosses and a holy well still remain.
Marcon were delighted to be appointed as principal contractor to bring the immersive design to life which includes a range of interactive displays, community stories, models, and immersive footage, allowing visitors to explore displays on Early Medieval pilgrimage, local traditions, the lives of former island inhabitants, and the island’s ongoing cultural significance to Mountshannon and the surrounding region.
The exhibition is set in the beautifully restored Old Rectory building, which dates to 1905. We were tasked with the manufacture and installation of all set works, production of coordinated drawings, and management of specialist work packages including graphics, AV, and 3D models, transforming this historic building into a modern interpretive hub.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Councillor Paul Murphy, said, “This carefully restored centre brings the natural beauty of Inis Cealtra, Lough Derg, and Mountshannon to life. It is a space where locals can celebrate their heritage and visitors can discover the unique stories and wildlife of the area, ensuring this special part of Clare is shared and enjoyed for years to come.”
“Our team worked closely with designers, Clare County Council, and specialist suppliers to ensure every element, from AV systems to 3D displays, was delivered to the highest standard and we are delighted with the end result and feedback from the Client. ” said Martin McErlean, Contracts Manager at Marcon.
Siobhán McNulty, Director of Service, Tourism, Festivals, Libraries & Cultural Services, Clare County Council added, “It is great to see the Inis Cealtra Experience opening its doors for the 2025 tourist season. I would like to thank the stakeholders for their support and positive working relationships to date. I look forward to the continued engagement with the local community as we promote the Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience in Mountshannon.
The centre also includes a first-floor café offering panoramic views of Lough Derg, and a revitalised Rectory Garden with outdoor seating, further enhancing the visitor experience for all.
