The Curragh is an open plain of grassland and heath found in Co. Kildare. It covers an area of approximately 1,971 (4,870 acres). The Curragh Plains are 5km wide at their widest point and extend 10kms from North-West to South-East.
The Curragh Plains are protected by the Irish Government as they are quite special. They have remained unfenced and uncultivated for at least 2000 years. As they have remained uncultivated for over 2000 years the soil and the plants that grow there are quite unique in Ireland.
The Curragh is rich in history. In pre-Christian Ireland, a large gathering was held on the Curragh Plains. The people of Leinster gathered there and new laws were made, marriage and funeral ceremonies carried out and contests and games enjoyed.
The Curragh is associated with St. Brigid, and indeed, is sometimes referred to as St. Brigid's Pastures.
The Curragh is also associated with the military and the racehorse industry, which we will look at on the following pages.
Maintainence of the Curragh Plains is carried out by an army of sheep. They keep grass and other vegetation under control without damaging the unique enviornment. A law dating back to 1870 gives a number of sheep farmers the right to graze their sheep anywhere on the Curragh, except for the racecourse and the areas used by the military.