Dublin museum wins Europe’s most prestigious heritage award

A huge accolade for the Dublin 14-based museum.

Dublin City Council’s 14 Henrietta Street museum was named as a winner of Europe’s most prestigious awards for heritage, the European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards.

The museum tells the story of the building’s shifting fortunes, connecting urban life history to the lives of the people who lived there over 300 years ago.

Dating back to the 18th century, 14 Henrietta Street was a grand residence before it later became a tenement home.

14 Henrietta Street won the category of Citizen’s Engagement and Awareness-raising at the prestigious awards.

While not a traditional museum, 14 Henrietta Street gives visitors the chance to listen to and speak with former residents, the local community and experts.

At its core are the people and their stories, bringing lived experience to life rather than simply preserving history.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Councillor Ray McAdam commented on the win: “Today, 14 Henrietta Street is deeply loved by the people of Dublin and by visitors from across the world. That affection speaks to the care, respect and authenticity with which the museum tells the story of our city.

"This award recognises the extraordinary work of the team who made this vision possible. But it also honours the thousands of lives that passed through the doors of this house over more than 300 years.”

Additionally, 14 Henrietta Street has been shortlisted for a second award, which is voted online by the public.

Votes can be cast until 12 May and all of the winners will be celebrated at the European Heritage Awards Ceremony 2026 on 28 May in Cyprus.