This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Smirkybec (talk | contribs) at 14:11, 2 May 2015 (creating and publishing initial page). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.
Revision as of 14:11, 2 May 2015 by Smirkybec (talk | contribs) (creating and publishing initial page)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)| Altamont House | |
|---|---|
 | |
| General information | |
| Location | County Carlow, Ireland |
| Construction started | 1740 - 1780 |
| Owner | Government of Ireland |
Altamont House is a historic building best known for its ornamental gardens in County Carlow. The Robinsonian-style gardens are often referred to as "the jewel in Ireland's gardening crown".
History
The early origins of the house are unclear, with some claiming that the building was first built as a convent. The central section of the house dates from the 1700s and the sections that face the east remain unchanged, and was built by the St George family. In the 1840s the Dawson Borrer family refurbished and altered, with the lake being dug as relief work for the local population during the Irish famine.
Gardens
The garden sits on the banks of River Slaney which includes an ice age glen, bog garden and arboretum, with view of the Blackstairs Mountains, Wicklow Mountains and Mount Leinster. Some of the oaks are believed to be over 500 years old, and the varying environments provide habitats for diverse set of wildlife.
Following the death of the last owner, Corona North, ownership of the house and gardens was transferred to the Irish State, and is operated by the Office of Public Works.
References
- "Altamont Gardens". Houses, Castles and Gardens of Ireland. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
- ^ "Altamont Garden". Ask About Ireland. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
- ^ "A Brief History of Altamont House and Garden". Altamont Garden. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
- "Altamont, County Carlow". Ireland's Eye. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
- "Altamont House & Gardens". Do Chara. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
- "A Gift to the Nation". The Nationalist. 21 January 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
- "Keys of Altamont are handed over to State". Carlow People. 28 January 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2015.
