New visitor experience and tourism hub opens in north Mayo today
A NEW visitor experience and tourism hub exploring the history and heritage of the Mullet Peninsula opens today.
SOLAS is located in Eachléim and the centre offers an interactive experience that gives visitors a fascinating insight into the rich history of the area.
Municipal district councillors received a sneak preview when they held their monthly meeting at the centre earlier this week, with a guided tour by Fergus Sweeney, whose family has a long association with nearby Blacksod Lighthouse - his late grandmother, Margaret, famed for delivering the D-Day weather report that changed the course of World War 2.
The stories to be explored at SOLAS are vast, from John Millington Synge's association with the area, to the Tuke emigration ships, the local whaling industry, Inishkea Islands, and, of course, the four lighthouses in Erris.
Visually compelling in its presentation, there's naturally a strong focus on the Irish language and culture in the Gaeltacht centre, with a craft shop set to offer visitors a range of local produce. The flora, fauna and biodiversity of the area are also to the fore.
This small coastal community has many stories to tell and this state of the art facility will preserve and celebrate them for many generations to come.
The new €4 million building, supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Údarás na Gaeltachta, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Pobal, Mayo County Council and Fáilte Ireland, is set to highlight the rich history, unique heritage and captivating language of the Mullet Peninsula.
Mairead Melody Carr, manager of Mayo North Tourism, stated: “SOLAS is a very welcome addition to the fantastic array of attractions in our area. Combined with our existing offerings, it enhances the attractiveness of north Mayo for tourists, encouraging them to stay a little longer and embrace not only the beauty of the area but also its historic and cultural connections.”
SOLAS offers visitors, through interactive exhibitions and exciting installations, an enlightening journey through the rich tapestry of the Mullet Peninsula’s offshore island communities, the resilience of the Irish language, and the preservation of timeless music, traditions, storytelling and myths.
Visitors will learn about the history of the area including famous weather warnings issued from Blacksod Lighthouse which delayed the historic D-Day landings during World War II as well as the story of assisted emigration from Blacksod to the US and Canada in the late 19th century. The use of modern interactive touchscreens allow visitors to engage with the exhibits and create a more personalised experience.
In a series of captivating displays, SOLAS also delves into the local whaling industry and narrates the dramatic tales of numerous shipwrecks scattered along the coastline, as well as the formidable pirates who once sailed these waters.
Fully accessible in both Irish and English, SOLAS provides a bilingual voyage into the essence of Irish heritage. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in an experience that not only educates but also engages with the area’s unique and precious biodiversity.
SOLAS embodies a true sense of place, where echoes of history and ancient lore come alive for locals and tourists alike. This immersive experience promises to be a lighthouse of knowledge and enjoyment for all who traverse the rugged beauty of the Mullet Peninsula.
COMMUNITY COOPERATION DELIVERS
John Gallagher, chairman of Comharchumann Forbartha Ionad Deirbhile Teo (CFID), who run SOLAS and also the Blacksod Lighthouse tours, at Tuesday's municipal meeting, thanked councillors and council executive for their support in working with the community on bringing the project to fruition to attract visitors to north Mayo.
Cathaoirleach Councillor Sean Carey said SOLAS will be a great asset for Eachléim and the wider region.
Councillor Gerry Coyle said the project was a credit to the community and showed what can be achieved.
Councillor Paul McNamara agreed that it is important that communities in rural areas work together. When that happens, projects like this are the result.
It was, he said, a marvellous attraction for visitors and the diaspora.
The passion behind the stories and the use of technology to deliver them was also commented on by members, with Councillor Brendan Mulroy urging that the education authorities come on board and bring students to visit.
Director of services Catherine McConnell said the centre is a testament to the commitment of the community, who were making it a bright future.
People would be well rewarded by taking the road less travelled up to Eachléim, she commented.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
SOLAS opens its doors at 3 p.m. today Friday, March 22, and welcomes everyone to explore this new hub. An official opening will take place at a later date, but as a gesture of goodwill, locals are invited to visit and experience the centre this weekend free of charge.
For more details on visiting hours, location, and exhibit information, visit VisitSolas.ie.
Opening Hours
The centre opening hours this weekend are:
Friday, March 22nd: 2pm-5pm
Saturday, March 23rd: 12pm – 3pm
Sunday, March 24th: 12pm – 3pm
From next week:
Monday 10-5
Tuesday - Closed
Wednesday - Closed
Thursday 10-5
Friday 10-5
Saturday 10-5
Sunday 10-5
SOLAS will be open seven days from June to the end of August from 10am – 6pm.