Canal Bridge, County Monaghan

What is recorded here

Canal Bridge in Tirkeenan is a modest name for Ireland’s longest canal tunnel, tucked beneath Old Cross Square. Calling that a bridge is like introducing a man as ‘handy with a spade’ when he’s dug his way to your house.

Former Ulster Canal tunnel, built c.1830, running east-west under Old Cross Square. Now disused and largely obscured by vegetation. Segmental arch to west end, with squared, tooled stone voussoirs, squared stonework to vault, and squared rubble to parapet. Similar parapet to east end.

The Ulster Canal Tunnel, running under the square at the south-east side of Monaghan Town centre, is of considerable engineering importance as the longest canal tunnel in Ireland. Although barely registering on the streetscape and although the stretches of waterway leading to and from it have been compromised by road and building construction, the tunnel and canal are important reminders of the great era of canals in Ireland.

From the Buildings of Ireland (National Inventory of Architectural Heritage) record 41303165

This does not grant access. Most recorded buildings are privately owned; view them only from public ground unless the owner allows entry.