Building Ireland

Engineer Tim Joyce investigates how you bore an 800 metre tunnel through Goggins Hill and build a viaduct across Laune valley at the dawn of Irelands railway age. Architect Orla Murphy explores the relationship of gunpowder with tunnel construction and Geographer Susan Hegarty discovers the markets and industries fuelling the railways.

Architect Orla Murphy investigates St John’s Cathedral and its gothic revival spire that dominates the skyline and represents the aspirations of 19th century Limerick. Geographer Susan Hegarty discovers the world famous qualities of the local blue limestone and Engineer Tim Joyce explores the city’s relationship with the Shannon.