Wicklow

Wicklow (wĭk'lō), county (1991 pop. 97,265), 782 sq mi (2,025 sq km), E Republic of Ireland. The county seat is Wicklow. The Wicklow Mts. and their foothills occupy almost the entire area of the county; Lugnaquilla (3,039 ft/926 m) is the highest peak. The Liffey and the Slaney rivers rise in Wicklow, and there are lakes and picturesque glens. Sheep and cattle are raised in the region, and grains are cultivated. Wicklow also has copper mines and a hydroelectric plant has been constructed in the area. Its proximity to Dublin makes the region a popular one with tourists. Glendalough has notable ecclesiastical remains. The people of the mountainous district were long able to maintain their independence of English control, hence Wicklow was not organized as a shire until 1606.