History
Park History
Wicklow Mountains National Park was established by the government in 1991 and is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Archaeology
There are dramatic remains from Ireland's early history to be found in the Park. Tombs, cairns, standing stones, rock art, and bullaun stones have all been found. More recently, charcoal platforms, millstones, and ironworks have left their mark.
Earliest Inhabitants
When was Wicklow first inhabited, and by who?
Early Routes and Roads
Many of the earliest routes across the mountain are still in use today.
Glendalough's Monastic History
In the latter part of the sixth century, St. Kevin crossed the mountains from Hollywood to Glendalough. The monastery he founded is still much visited today.
The Normans
The Normans arrived in Ireland in 1169 with conquest in mind.
Fiach McHugh - Rebel Leader
Fiach McHugh was the most powerful clan-leader in Leinster in 1580. He commenced a revolt, attacking north Wexford, Carlow and Newcastle.
Formation of County Wicklow
County Wicklow was first established in 1597.
The Restoration
Following the end of rebellion in 1652, the 'Adventurers' which had financially backed Government forces were now able to colonize the lands of the now evicted O'Byrnes and O'Tooles. This colonization was known as the Restoration.
Penal Times
At the beginning of the eighteenth century a raft of anti-Catholic legislation passed through parliament, aimed at maintaining the economic, social and political supremacy of Protestantism by keeping Catholics in a state of incapacity.
1798 Rebellion
The Penal Laws resulted in a rebellion in 1798. The Wicklow uplands were the scene of much violence and unrest.
Mining
The geological divide between the granite core of the mountains and the surrounding rock types were rich with minerals such as lead, zinc and silver. These minerals were mined for over 150 years.
Tourism
County Wicklow became more widely known in the nineteenth as a result of the growth in tourism. Today, Glendalough is one of the most visited areas in the country.
New Land
In May 2009, the acquisition of new land increased the area of the National Park by 2,833 hectares.