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22 Jan 2026

New TV documentary on Grace O’Malley to showcase Mayo historical sites

ARTE feature with biographer Anne Chambers airs on February 3, highlighting Murrisk, Croagh Patrick, Louisburgh and Rockfleet Castle to European audience.

Anne Chambers and Grace O'Malley Statue Westport House

Anne Chambers at the Grace O'Malley Statue at Westport House.

A new television feature on Grace O’Malley – Mayo and Ireland’s legendary Pirate Queen – is set to bring the story and landscapes of Mayo to millions of viewers across Europe next month.

The programme, featuring renowned biographer Anne Chambers, will be broadcast on the European TV channel ARTE at 5.30pm on February 3. ARTE is a popular international broadcaster dedicated to culture and travel and is available in countries across Europe.

Filmed on location last summer in Murrisk, Croagh Patrick, Louisburgh and Rockfleet Castle, the feature explores the life and legacy of Grace O’Malley, one of Ireland’s most iconic historical figures.

Speaking about the programme, Anne Chambers said it will help bring O’Malley’s remarkable story to a wider international audience, while also shining a spotlight on the west of Ireland.

“It brings the amazing story of Grace O’Malley to a wider audience. This in turn will no doubt positively impact tourist footfall in the areas associated with her story, especially along the Wild Atlantic Way, and encourage her many fans worldwide to follow in the footsteps of our great Pirate Queen,” she said.

The broadcast is expected to further enhance interest in the region’s rich heritage and scenic locations, which have long been associated with O’Malley’s life and maritime exploits.

Anne Chambers is widely recognised for her extensive work as a biographer and historian. Her latest book, due to be published in March by Red Stripe Press, is titled 'Living Lives: A Biographer’s Journey'. The book explores the rewards and challenges of biography writing, drawing on her experiences over more than 40 years documenting the lives of remarkable individuals.

The ARTE feature is expected to appeal to history enthusiasts, cultural travellers and international audiences with an interest in Ireland’s heritage, while also providing a welcome boost to tourism along the Wild Atlantic Way.

READ MORE: Mayo museum upcoming free events: Bears, Brigid and Celtic myths

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