Building Ireland

Watch Building Ireland

  • 2013
  • 2 Seasons

Building Ireland is a fascinating historical documentary series produced by Indigenius, which chronicles the evolution of architecture and engineering in Ireland from ancient times to the present day. Over the course of six episodes, viewers are taken on a journey through the country's rich architectural heritage, exploring the various styles and techniques used over the centuries to construct some of Ireland's most iconic landmarks.

The series begins with a focus on the early Celtic period, examining the construction of ringforts, crannogs, and other basic structures that were essential to early Irish society. We learn how these early building techniques were adapted and refined over time, leading to the construction of more complex religious and cultural structures, such as the monastic settlements at Glendalough and Clonmacnoise.

Moving forward in time, the series explores the arrival of the Normans in Ireland in the 12th century and how they introduced new styles of architecture that would influence building design for centuries to come. The influence of the Tudor and Elizabethan periods is also examined, with a focus on the grand manor houses and castles that were built throughout Ireland during this time.

One of the most fascinating periods covered in the series is the Georgian era, which saw a boom in building construction in Dublin and other cities. We learn how the architecture of this period reflected the aspirations of the wealthy middle class who sought to establish their status through elegant and elaborate building designs. Georgian buildings are renowned for their distinctive features, such as sash windows, fanlights, and ornate plasterwork, and the series explores the techniques and materials used to create these impressive structures.

Throughout the series, viewers are given an insight into the minds of the architects, engineers, and builders who worked tirelessly to create Ireland's most iconic landmarks. We learn about the challenges they faced, the innovations they introduced, and the lasting impact their work had on Irish society and culture.

The final episode of the series brings us up to the present day, highlighting the exciting new developments in Irish architecture and engineering. We learn about the use of cutting-edge materials and technologies to create some of Ireland's most impressive modern buildings, such as the Aviva Stadium in Dublin and the Samuel Beckett Bridge in Galway.

Overall, Building Ireland is a compelling and informative series that offers a unique perspective on the history of architecture and engineering in Ireland. Through stunning visuals, expert commentary, and engaging storytelling, the series illuminates the rich cultural heritage of Ireland through its built environment, giving viewers a deeper appreciation for the country's past, present, and future.

Building Ireland is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (12 episodes). The series first aired on September 12, 2013.

Building Ireland
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Seasons
Galway's Corrib Canal
6. Galway's Corrib Canal
July 31, 2018
Engineer Tim Joyce discovers the canal system in Galway and its impact on the shape of the city. Geographer Susan Hegarty explores the caves under Lough Corrib to understand the difficulties in canal construction while Architect Orla Murphy looks at the building of the University in Galway and how it fulfilled the ambitions of the City of the Tribes.
Dublin's Distilleries
5. Dublin's Distilleries
July 31, 2018
Architect Orla Murphy goes in search of the Roe Distillery which was the world's biggest producer of Whiskey by the late 19th Century. Geographer Susan Hegarty discovers how a supply of fresh water was crucial for large and small industry in the Liberties, while Engineer Tim Joyce investigates the science and technology for making whiskey.
Kerry Tourism
4. Kerry Tourism
July 31, 2018
Geographer Susan Hegarty discovers how an inhospitable but beautiful landscape was exploited as a mass market tourism destination. Engineer Tim Joyce explores the engineering behind Europe's most westerly railway and Architect Orla Murphy investigates the role of a railway company in developing a world class hotel.
Ardnacrusha
3. Ardnacrusha
July 31, 2018
Engineer Tim Joyce visits the Ardnacrusha power station to explore the innovative engineering that made it the biggest hydroelectric project in the world when it opened in 1929. Geographer Susan Hegarty investigates the River Shannon as a source of power and Architect Orla Murphy discovers the German influences in the construction of the buildings.
Kilkenny Castle
2. Kilkenny Castle
July 31, 2018
Architect Orla Murphy recounts the story of Kilkenny Castle, from its origins as a 12th Century fortress to its remodeling as an elegant stately home. Geographer Susan Hegarty explores the layout of mediaeval Kilkenny and Engineer Tim Joyce finds out how a catastrophic flood in 1763 led to new bridges over the Rive Nore that are still in use today.
Spike Island
1. Spike Island
July 31, 2018
Geographer Susan Hegarty leads the team on a visit to Fortress Spike Island in Cork Harbour built to defend an Empire, only to become an island prison. Engineer Tim Joyce investigates the military engineering of the vast complex while Architect Orla Murphy explores the Victorian character of Cobh's residential architecture
Description
Where to Watch Building Ireland
Building Ireland is available for streaming on the Indigenius website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Building Ireland on demand at Amazon Prime.
  • Premiere Date
    September 12, 2013