Crumlin Road Gaol opens its doors - 28 August 2005

The public will have a rare opportunity to see around Belfast's historic Crumlin Road Gaol next month.

As part of European Heritage Open Days, the famous Victorian prison will be open to visitors, free of charge, on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September 2005. There will be a series of guided tours lasting around an hour and including the infamous 'hanging cell'.

The Crumlin Road Gaol is of international significance as an early example of an innovative approach to prison planning and organisation. It is a Grade A listed building in view of its historic and architectural importance.

Designed by Sir Charles Lanyon, the prison was built between 1843 and 1845. The layout was based on Pentonville Prison in London. This, in turn, was influenced by the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, USA, the first to be laid out on the radial cellular system.

There are four wings radiating from a central hub. The wings are three or four stories in height and contain 640 cells open to view from the central inspection hall.

Places are limited and pre-booking is essential and you can do so by contacting North Belfast Community Action Unit on 028 9072 6047 before 9 September.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. The event is being organised by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister and the Department for Social Development. For further information contact Linda Hare, North Belfast Community Action Unit on 028 9072 6047.

2. Media enquiries to Paul Pringle, Press Office, Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, tel 028 9052 2659.