The Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience at the Rectory in Mountshannon has won an award at the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Architecture Awards 2026.
The popular Clare visitor attraction, which was developed by Clare County Council, was successful in the awards Adaptation and Re-Use category.
Designed by McCullough Mulvin Architects, the award acknowledges the high-quality restoration and repurposing of the historic building into a flagship visitor attraction for the Lough Derg region.
The visitor experience provides an engaging insight into the history of Inis Cealtra (Holy Island), exploring themes of pilgrimage, heritage, and the natural environment, while strengthening connections between the site and the local community.
The recognition supports the continued promotion of County Clare as a destination of cultural and architectural significance.
The centre is housed in the Old Rectory, a period residence dating back to 1905. The historic building has been carefully restored, repurposed, and extended to serve as a visitor and interpretative hub for Inis Cealtra, one of Ireland’s most significant ecclesiastical heritage sites.
Acting Senior Executive Officer Tourism, Festivals & Events, Clare County Council, Theresa Hughes Lannon, said, “We are delighted to receive this prestigious award for the Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience at the Rectory in Mountshannon.
“We would sincerely like to thank everyone who contributed to the project and in particular Mc Cullough Mulvin Architects for the care and consideration into preserving this historic iconic building, and the local community for their input and support.”