Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Its medieval monastery and stunning mountain landscape attract around one million tourists every year. However behind the postcard-perfect scenery lies a history that rarely makes it into the tourist brochures.

In this episode, I veer off the well-trodden paths to uncover the real stories of Glendalough: stories of violence, exploitation, and transformation that have shaped the valley for centuries. This includes its early medieval history as a 'military industrial complex' and a very special interview with Robbie Carter - a former lead miner in the area.

This episode will change the way you see one of Ireland's most famous historic sites.

The podcast features Frank Tracy, Graeme Warren, Margaret Duff Garvey Pat Reid and Robbie Carter. A special thanks to Deirdre Burns.

This episode was funded by Wicklow Co Council and the Heritage Council.

Sound by Kate Dunlea.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vast, windswept, and seemingly untouched—the landscape around the Sally Gap in Wicklow is a place where history appears to vanish into the heather and mist. With no houses and few traces of human settlement, this moorland feels like a true wilderness.

Yet, the story of this landscape is one forged by ancient forces, human ambition, and exploitation.

In this episode, I continue my journey down the Wicklow Military Road into what some have called one of Ireland’s last great wildernesses, uncovering a hidden history that stretches back thousands of years.

Written, Produced & Narrated by Fin Dwyer

Sound by Kate Dunlea

Featuring: Frank Tracy, Deirdre Burns, Faith Wilson, Michael Fewer, Graeme Warren & Margaret Duff Garvey.

This episode was funded by Wicklow Co Council and The Heritage Council.

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1800, in the wake of the 1798 Rebellion, the British military began construction of the Wicklow Military Road. Designed to bring control to the so-called “bandit country” of the Wicklow Mountains, this road now winds through some of the most remote and picturesque landscapes in Ireland. Its history is as dramatic as the scenery it traverses. Built in an Ireland still reeling from insurrection, the road has, over the past two centuries, borne witness to some of the most remarkable—and often dark—chapters in our history. From disappearances during the Irish Civil War to a German war cemetery, the Wicklow Military Road is a route steeped in intrigue and untold stories. This podcast explores this road through Ireland's bandit country.

Thanks to Michael Fewer, Margaret Duff Garvey, Joan Kavanagh, Faith Wilson & Frank Tracy.

Special Thanks to Deirdre Burns.

Written & Produced: Fin Dwyer

Narration: Fin Dwyer

Sound: Kate Dunlea

Funded by Wicklow Co Co & The Heritage Council

Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.