One of the last city landmarks seen by emigrants leaving Ireland’s Galway Bay on “coffin ships” bound for America during the Great Potato Famine is set to become a major tourist attraction when the revamped Mutton Island lighthouse opens to tour groups on a regular basis next year.
The light was switched off at the 18th century building in 1977 and it was allowed to fall into disrepair, but a comprehensive restoration project which began seven years ago is set to be completed in time for an official reopening next spring.
The lighthouse, established in 1817, boasts superb views of the bay and the city.
