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 Ireland's railway age. Architect Orla Murphy explores the relationship of gunpowder with tunnel construction and Geographer Susan Hegarty discovers the markets and industries fueling the railways.

Architect Orla Murphy investigates the 19th century banking halls of Dame Street and the impact of personalities and politics on the architecture of the booming finance houses. Engineer Tim Joyce discovers how banking led to the innovative development of the docks and Geographer Susan Hegarty explores the role of bridges in planning the city.

Geographer Susan Hegarty investigates the mile-long quay wall and fascinating maritime history of Ireland's oldest city that has trade links with every corner of the world. Engineer Tim Joyce discovers the shipbuilding history of Waterford and Architect Orla Murphy explores the streets and building to uncover the history of the city and its people.

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.

Engineer Tim Joyce investigates the construction of the Boyne Viaduct at Drogheda and its reputation as one of Ireland's greatest examples of Victorian industrial engineering. Architect Orla Murphy discovers the design of a 21st century bridge over the Boyne and Geographer Susan Hegarty explores 8,000 years of human settlement in the area.

Geographer Susan Hegarty explores the historical role of Mayo's wool production in stimulating a textile industry that has been subject to success, failure and rejuvenation. Architect Orla Murphy discovers how the textile industry impacted on town planning in Westport and Engineer Tim Joyce investigates developments in woollen mill technology.