Fire devastates Doagh Famine Village in Donegal

A devastating fire has destroyed significant portions of the Doagh Famine Village, a renowned outdoor museum and tourist attraction on the Inishowen peninsula in Donegal, Ireland. The blaze, which broke out Saturday afternoon, resulted in the loss of key exhibits including replicas of an Orange Hall, a Republican safe house, and displays documenting the peace process and Travelling community history, with about two-thirds of the site damaged overall. Fortunately, no injuries were reported and foul play is not suspected. The village, owned by the Doherty family and operating since the 1990s, had no insurance for its thatched buildings, making the prospect of reopening challenging without substantial investment. The local community has rallied around the Doherty family, expressing deep sadness and pledging support in the aftermath of the fire. The museum is closed until further notice, with refunds offered to those who had booked visits.