European Heritage Award / Europa Nostra Award celebrated at 14 Henrietta Street in Dublin, Ireland
14 Henrietta Street, Dublin’s social history museum, celebrated its European Heritage Award / Europa Nostra Award 2026 at a presentation ceremony held at the museum on 18 August during Heritage Week. The celebration brought together around 60 participants from the culture and heritage sector and beyond, alongside representatives of local and national institutions, including Dublin City Council, the Heritage Council, ICOMOS Ireland, and the Irish Museum Association.
The ceremony opened with remarks by Lord Mayor Daryl Barron, who praised the work undertaken at 14 Henrietta Street and its significance in reconnecting Dublin with the stories and memories associated with the historic building: “We recognise that heritage is not a static thing; it requires active engagement, strategic planning and investment not just in our heritage buildings but in our collective memory.”
His address was followed by remarks from Méabh de Búrca, speaking on behalf of the European Commission, and Virginia Teehan, CEO of the Heritage Council.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD highlighted the wider significance of the museum as an example of how heritage can contribute to sustaining communities and preserving the human stories connected to historic places: “This museum stands as a beacon of what we can achieve when we protect our shared history. […] As we look to the future, the success found here serves as compelling evidence that continued investment in heritage is essential, not just to preserve structures, but to sustain the vibrant communities and human stories they hold.”
Iseult Dunne, Chief Executive of Dublin City Council Culture Company, which operates the museum, underlined the importance of listening to, engaging with and learning from the people connected with the house and its history. She highlighted this approach as central to understanding the place and its relevance, helping to “ensure that visitors can explore the history and heritage of Dublin in ways that feel meaningful and accessible.” She also praised the team behind 14 Henrietta Street, explaining how the museum grew from the stories, memories and experiences collected throughout the development of the project.
Representing Europa Nostra, Paul Dujardin, Member of the European Heritage Awards Jury, reflected on the significance of the project in demonstrating the deep connections between the built environment and the social history associated with it. He praised the museum for enabling visitors not simply to see a historic building, “but to experience the lives, memories and emotions of the generations who called it home.” He further highlighted how “this museum creates an exemplary model of citizen-centred heritage practice that will inspire heritage professionals across Europe.”
The Award plaque was subsequently unveiled and presented to the public, formally marking the recognition of the project’s outstanding contribution to heritage interpretation and community engagement.
