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Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Grattan Bridge is a historic road bridge spanning the River Liffey in Dublin, linking Capel Street to Parliament Street and the south quays. It was first constructed in 1676 and named Essex Bridge, serving as the city's third bridge at the time. The initial arched stone structure was prone to flood damage and required reconstruction. It was substantially rebuilt between 1753 and 1755 by engineer George Semple. Around 1874, the bridge was remodelled again, being widened and flattened to accommodate modern traffic. It was reopened as Grattan Bridge to honour the notable Irish parliamentarian Henry Grattan. The present-day design features granite arches with cantilevered footpaths. A distinctive feature is its ornate cast-iron lamp standards.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Oliver St. John Gogarty's is an iconic and popular pub, accommodation (hostel and apartments), and restaurant located in the heart of Temple Bar, Dublin's cultural quarter. It's named after the Irish author, poet, surgeon, and politician Oliver St. John Gogarty, who also inspired the character Buck Mulligan in James Joyce's Ulysses. The venue is famous for featuring live traditional Irish music sessions every day, from the early afternoon until late. The establishment is spread across several floors, offering an "olde world charm" atmosphere in the downstairs bar, an upstairs music hall, and an award-winning restaurant. It also serves all-day bar food and a carvery lunch.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The River Liffey is a central and historical feature of Dublin, flowing from west to east through the city before emptying into Dublin Bay in the Irish Sea. The river has played a crucial role throughout the city's over 1,000-year history, acting as a trade route and, at one point, a boundary between the north and south. Today, the river, which is 125 km long and originates at Sally Gap (County Wicklow), is a route for tourist cruises and hosts popular events like the annual Liffey Swim (a swimming race since 1920) and the Colours Boat Races (since 1947). It is crossed by several notable bridges, including the iconic Ha'penny Bridge (or Liffey Bridge) and the modern Samuel Beckett Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Temple Bar Pub is, without a doubt, Dublin's most famous, most photographed, and most iconic pub, located in the heart of the popular Temple Bar district of the same name.
History and Founding: The current pub was established around 1840, during a period when the street was in decline. It regained its name and traditional character after a major renovation in the late 20th century.
Atmosphere and Design: It is instantly recognizable by its bright red facade and overflowing hanging flower baskets, making it a classic Dublin postcard image. Inside, it offers a cosy atmosphere with traditional décor and tremendous vitality.
Key Attractions:
Traditional Irish Music (Trad): The pub is famous for hosting live music sessions daily, which greatly contributes to its festive atmosphere.
Whiskey: It claims to hold the largest collection of Irish Whiskeys in the country.
Significance: Despite its immense popularity among tourists (making it one of the city's more expensive pubs), it remains a symbol of Irish pub culture and a must-visit landmark in the capital.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Temple Bar Pub, located in the heart of Dublin, is one of Ireland's most iconic landmarks. Known for its vibrant red facade, it attracts millions of tourists annually looking for an authentic experience. This historic pub is not only famous for its extensive selection of beers and whiskey but also for its unparalleled atmosphere and live traditional Irish music. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy the music and company. Despite the tourist influx, it remains an essential meeting point for both visitors and locals.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Dame Tavern, located on Dame Court, is an authentic pub that has become a landmark in Dublin for over 40 years. It is known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, which attracts both locals and tourists seeking a genuine Irish pub experience. The tavern is particularly popular for its pint of Guinness, considered one of the best in the city. In addition, it offers live music, creating a lively and perfect atmosphere for a good time. Its cozy interior with a fireplace upstairs makes it an ideal spot for a quiet pint.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Oliver St. John Gogarty's is an iconic, vibrant, and key landmark pub located in the heart of the Temple Bar cultural district in Dublin.
Name and History: The pub is named after the famous Irish author, poet, surgeon, and politician Oliver St. John Gogarty, who also inspired the character of Buck Mulligan in James Joyce's masterpiece, Ulysses. It was designed in a traditional late 19th-century style.
Atmosphere and Music: It is famous for its lively atmosphere and is one of Dublin's main hubs for live music. It features traditional Irish music sessions daily, usually running from the early afternoon until late at night.
Offerings: The establishment spans several floors and offers a complete experience:
Bar: Serves a wide selection of drinks, including a large range of rare whiskeys.
Food: Features a daily carvery lunch and an extensive bar food menu, as well as an award-winning restaurant serving traditional Irish cuisine, including dishes with 19th-century recipes.
Accommodation: The Gogarty's complex also provides accommodation, including an international hostel and self-catering apartments, catering to budget travellers seeking a central location.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The term "Mayes Time" refers to the famous exterior sign of a former, well-known Dublin pub located on the corner of Dorset Street and Frederick Street North. The pub's most distinctive feature was this sign displaying a large, iconic clock. The sign, previously known as "Guinness Time," featured an extravagant image of a character, a seal, and an ostrich holding up the big clock. The imagery was historically associated with Guinness advertising, although the pub's name was simply Mayes Pub. For many years, it served as a traditional pub and a local landmark for Northside Dubliners. Mayes was also known as a popular spot for Tottenham Hotspur football fans. Unfortunately, the pub closed its doors around 2022. Following its closure, an application was lodged to convert the iconic space into a Centra convenience store, which caused public controversy. Currently, the future of the site and the fate of its iconic clock sign are not entirely clear.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Dublinia is an interactive and experiential attraction in Dublin, dedicated to immersing visitors in the city's medieval history, especially during the Viking and Norman eras.
Location: The museum is located in the heart of historic Dublin, next to Christ Church Cathedral, to which it is connected by a medieval footbridge.
Main Themes: The exhibits focus on three key periods:
Viking Dublin: Shows what the original Viking settlements of the city were like, featuring replicas of ships and homes.
Medieval Dublin: Explains daily life, trade, disease, and death in the city after the Normans arrived.
'History Hunters': A section dedicated to archaeology and the historical legacy found beneath the city.
Experience: Dublinia is known for its fun, family-friendly presentation, using costumed actors who play historical roles and various interactive exhibits to bring history to life.
Viking Tower: The tour ends with the option to climb the medieval St Michael’s Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Westmoreland Street is a significant and historic street in Dublin, connecting the famous O'Connell Bridge to College Green, where the prestigious Trinity College is located. Designed in the late 18th century by the Wide Streets Commission, it is part of one of the city's main thoroughfares. Its name comes from John Fane, the 10th Earl of Westmorland. The street is known for its architecture and notable buildings, some featuring terracotta facades and stone elements. Additionally, Westmoreland Street marks the eastern boundary of the famous Temple Bar district. Due to its central location, it is a very busy area, with shops and restaurants.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Department of the Taoiseach (Department of the Prime Minister) is the Irish government department that supports the Taoiseach (Head of Government). It is headquartered in the Government Buildings on Merrion Street Upper, an imposing complex of Edwardian architecture. Its primary role is to advise the Taoiseach in their duties and to coordinate the collective action of the government. It also provides the Secretariat to the Government and manages communication with the President of Ireland and the Oireachtas (Parliament). The department plays a crucial role in formulating and coordinating key policies in areas such as economic development, Northern Ireland, and the European Union. The building it occupies was completed in 1922 and was originally intended for the Royal College of Science. The Government Buildings also house the Department of Finance and the Office of the Attorney General. The refurbished interior includes the Council Chamber and the Taoiseach's office.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Oliver St. John Gogarty's is one of Dublin's most iconic and popular Irish pubs, located in the heart of Temple Bar, the city's cultural and nightlife quarter.
Name and Inspiration: It is named after the renowned surgeon, poet, politician, and wit Oliver St. John Gogarty (1878–1957), who also served as the inspiration for the character Buck Mulligan in James Joyce's novel Ulysses.
Offerings: The establishment is famous for its festive atmosphere and live traditional Irish music sessions held daily from the early afternoon until late at night.
Structure: It is spread across two of the oldest buildings in the Temple Bar Quarter, featuring multiple spaces: a traditionally styled bar, an upstairs music lounge, and a restaurant serving traditional food, including dishes with recipes dating back to the 1880s. It also incorporates the Oliver St John Gogarty's International Hostel.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Henry Street is one of Dublin's two principal shopping streets, located on the city's Northside. It is a mostly pedestrianised thoroughfare running from the Spire and the General Post Office (GPO) to Liffey Street. The street is famous for its dense concentration of high-street chain stores and national retailers. It is home to the major department store Arnotts and two large shopping centres, the Ilac Centre and the Jervis Shopping Centre. Despite being heavily damaged during the 1916 Easter Rising, the area was rebuilt and flourished as a retail district. The historic outdoor Moore Street market is located just off Henry Street. The street is known for its vibrant, bustling atmosphere, often featuring buskers and street performers. It forms the core of the retail trade north of the River Liffey.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin is one of the few remaining medieval buildings in the city and one of its most popular visitor attractions. Founded in 1191 in honour of Ireland's patron saint, it is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland and the largest church in the country.
It is renowned for its rich history and Gothic architecture. Its most celebrated resident is the writer Jonathan Swift (author of Gulliver's Travels), who served as Dean of the Cathedral in the 1700s and is buried there. The cathedral is also home to a world-famous choir, established in 1432, and is the origin of the English phrase to chance your arm, stemming from a medieval feud.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Guinness Storehouse is Dublin's most popular tourist attraction and the home of the famous black stout. Located at the historic St. James's Gate Brewery, the building was originally a fermentation plant. Opened as a visitor center in 2000, the interactive exhibition tells the story of Guinness, from its beginnings in 1759 to the present day. The tour showcases the four key ingredients of the beer, the brewing process, and the evolution of the brand's iconic advertising. The experience culminates at the Gravity Bar, where visitors can enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness with 360-degree panoramic views over the entire city of Dublin.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
South Great George's Street is one of the most historic and vibrant commercial thoroughfares in Dublin city centre, renowned for its strong Victorian architecture and independent character.
Location and Character: It connects Dame Street in the north to Aungier Street in the south. It is one of the few areas in Dublin to retain a consistent Victorian red-brick and even some Georgian architectural feel, distinguishing it from major modern retail areas.
George's Street Arcade: The street's most prominent feature is the George's Street Arcade (originally the South City Markets), Ireland's first purpose-built Victorian shopping centre (opened in 1881, rebuilt after a fire in 1892). This covered arcade is a hub of small, independent shops, vintage goods, books, and coffee spots, serving as the commercial heart of the area.
Significance: The street is a centre for social and retail life, surrounded by other popular streets in the city's "Creative Quarter" (like Fade Street and Drury Street), and is known for its blend of bars, specialised stores, and an eclectic, bohemian atmosphere.
Breezing into platform 10, General Motors Diesel, 220 in recently painted retro orange livery, about to operate along the south coast to Rosslare on the RPSI "Sea Breeze " at 10:45 hrs.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Glasnevin Cemetery is Ireland's largest cemetery and one of the country's most historically and politically significant sites.
Founding and Purpose: It was established in 1832 by the political leader Daniel O'Connell (The Great Liberator). Its creation was crucial because, until then, British Penal Laws prohibited Catholics from having their own cemeteries. Glasnevin opened as a non-denominational graveyard, where everyone, regardless of faith, could receive a dignified burial.
Political Landmarks: It is often referred to as Ireland's "national cemetery" as it is the final resting place for many of the most important figures who shaped modern Irish history, including:
Daniel O'Connell (buried beneath the impressive Round Tower named after him).
Michael Collins (leader of the War of Independence).
Éamon de Valera (former President of Ireland).
Charles Stewart Parnell (political leader).
Significance: With over 1.5 million people interred (including many Great Famine victims), Glasnevin is a vast necropolis that serves as a living archive of Irish history, politics, and genealogy. It is also noted for its Victorian garden architecture and its high walls and watchtowers, originally built to deter body snatchers.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Lord Edward Street is a historically significant street in Dublin, opened in 1886 as part of a scheme to provide a more direct route between Dame Street and Christchurch Place.
Namesake: It is named after Lord Edward FitzGerald (1763–1798), an Irish aristocrat and revolutionary who was fatally wounded while resisting arrest for treason. FitzGerald is buried in the nearby St. Werburgh's Church.
Location: The street is particularly notable for its close proximity to Christ Church Cathedral, offering views of the iconic Gothic-Romanesque building.
Notable Buildings: The street features historic buildings with late 19th and early 20th-century architecture, such as the Lord Edward Pub (located on Christchurch Place) and the former Dublin Working Boys Home & Harding Technical School (now Kinlay House Hostel).
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
St Stephen's Green is one of the most well-known and beloved public parks in the heart of Dublin city. It is a large, rectangular square that marks the southern end of the main shopping street, Grafton Street. In the 17th century, it was a common marshland where livestock grazed before it was enclosed in 1664 and surrounded by elegant houses. It was originally opened as a private park, accessible only by key to the local residents. Thanks to the efforts of politician Arthur Guinness, the park was redesigned and reopened to the public in 1880. Today, it features a Victorian-era landscape design, complete with an ornamental lake, waterfalls, and a bandstand. The park is a peaceful location featuring many monuments honouring important figures and events in Irish history. It was a site of fighting during the 1916 Easter Rising. It is now a popular urban oasis that serves as Dublin's central green lung.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Porterhouse Temple Bar is a landmark pub located in Dublin's Temple Bar district, established in 1996. It is renowned for being Ireland's first-ever craft brewpub, successfully challenging the dominance of mainstream beers. Founded by Oliver Hughes and Liam LaHart, it spearheaded the country's craft beer revolution. Although the brewing has moved off-site, the pub still serves its signature beers from The Porterhouse Brewing Company. Its famous Plain Porter has won multiple international awards for best stout. The multi-storey venue boasts a vibrant atmosphere, with classic dark wood décor and displayed bottles. It offers a huge selection of its own brews, such as Oyster Stout and Nitro Red Ale, and guest beers from around the world. The Porterhouse serves traditional Irish pub food and is well-known for hosting live music seven nights a week. It stands as a haven for beer enthusiasts, maintaining a vital cultural centre within the lively neighbourhood.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Masonry is a coworking space and a historic building located on Thomas Street in the Liberties district of Dublin. Formerly a seed and grain warehouse for the Irish Agricultural Wholesale Society, with parts dating back to 1780. With its refurbishment, the building has retained its original architecture, featuring brick facades and wooden beams, transforming into a modern and vibrant workspace. It offers a wide range of options, including private offices and coworking spaces, for both small and large businesses. The Masonry features an internal and external courtyard, meeting rooms, and amenities such as daily cleaning and IT support.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Temple Bar Food Market is an outdoor gastronomic market held every Saturday in Meeting House Square, in the heart of Dublin. Founded in the late 90s, it was created by a group of local producers with the vision of bringing farm-fresh and artisan products to the city center. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, including organic fruits and vegetables, cheeses, artisan breads, fresh seafood, and homemade pastries. It's also an ideal place to enjoy ready-to-eat food, such as oysters, crepes, and other international dishes. The market is a must-visit for food lovers who want to experience Ireland's vibrant culinary culture in a lively atmosphere.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
Temple Bar is the most famous and vibrant cultural and nightlife district in Dublin, located on the south bank of the River Liffey.
Identity and Atmosphere: It is world-renowned for its narrow, cobbled streets, Georgian architecture, and high concentration of traditional Irish pubs. The atmosphere is constantly lively, attracting a large number of tourists and locals, with a highlight being the continuous sessions of live traditional Irish music.
History: The district is likely named after Sir William Temple (who had his house and gardens here in the 17th century). After a period of decline, it was saved from demolition in the 1980s. Instead of becoming a bus station, the area was promoted as a "Cultural Quarter" in the early 90s, solidifying its current bohemian and artistic identity.
Cultural Offerings: Beyond the pubs, Temple Bar hosts art galleries, craft and vintage clothing shops, theatres, and various markets, such as the Temple Bar Book Market.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Ambassador Theatre is a historic and versatile venue located on Parnell Street, at the top of O'Connell Street, on Dublin's north side.
Historic Origin: The original building dates back to 1764 and was designed by John Ensor as an assembly hall and social rooms intended to raise funds for the nearby Rotunda Hospital.
Life as a Cinema: From the late 19th century, the venue began showing 'moving pictures,' and in 1910, it became a full-time cinema. It was rebranded as The Ambassador in 1954 and was Dublin's longest-running cinema until it closed in 1999.
Current Function: Following its closure as a cinema, the space has had several reincarnations. It operated as a major live music venue (hosting artists like Amy Winehouse and Def Leppard) and, currently (as of 2024), is primarily used as an event space, exhibition hall, and comedy concert venue.
Architecture: The building is notable for its classical design, featuring colonnades and arches, and is considered an important component of the architectural heritage of the Parnell Square area.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The GPO Museum (General Post Office Museum), located inside the iconic neoclassical General Post Office (GPO) building on O'Connell Street, Dublin, is one of the most important sites for understanding modern Irish history.
Main Focus: The museum primarily focuses on the 1916 Easter Rising, a pivotal event on the path to Irish independence. The GPO served as the headquarters for the rebels during the Rising and sustained major damage.
Experience: The museum offers an interactive and immersive experience, using touchscreens, video, audio-visual materials, and authentic artefacts to narrate the events of 1916 and the aftermath that led to the creation of the Irish Republic.
Significance: The GPO remains a powerful symbol of Irish nationalism and communication, as the building still functions as the main post office.
Sea Breeze Sunday, whichever way you go.
To the left, a class 8520 DART Tokyu Car Corporation electric EMU heading for Howth along the north coast, while to the right, a class 201 General Motors Diesel, 220 in recently painted retro orange livery, about to operate along the south coast to Rosslare on the RPSI "Sea Breeze ".
What a delightful Sunday at Connolly Railway Station in Dublin! The green electric DART, proudly displaying its destination to Howth, is ready to whisk me away on a breezy coastal adventure. I can already imagine the fresh sea air, the charming little village, and maybe even a sneaky ice cream by the harbor—it’s the perfect way to soak up a lazy weekend. The train’s vibrant green and yellow livery feels like a cheerful invitation to hop on and leave the city behind for a few hours of seaside bliss.
Right beside it, the striking orange heritage engine, marked for Rosslare, is stealing a bit of the spotlight. It’s on a special excursion run, and I can’t help but picture the lucky passengers onboard, chugging along towards the sunny southeast coast. The nostalgic vibe of this beauty makes me think of old-school train journeys—maybe with a picnic basket in tow and the promise of sandy beaches at the end of the line. It’s hard to decide which trip I’d rather take today!
Dublin’s Connolly Station is buzzing with that classic train magic, where every departure feels like the start of a little adventure. Whether it’s the DART to Howth for a Sunday stroll or the heritage run to Rosslare for a taste of nostalgia, there’s something so joyful about heading away on a train excursion. Where would you go—sea breeze in Howth or a scenic ride to Rosslare?
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
The Oscar Wilde Monument is a unique and colourful public sculpture located at the northeast corner of St Stephen's Green in Dublin. The monument commemorates the famous Dublin-born writer and poet, Oscar Wilde (1854-1900), known for his witty works. The sculpture, created by artist Danny Osborne, was unveiled in 1997. The centrepiece is a full-body figure of Wilde, reclining in a relaxed pose on a large boulder of quartzite. The sculpture is fashioned from various materials, primarily black jade from British Columbia and jade-green nephrite. Wilde's face is crafted from deep green serpentine tourmaline, while his shoes are made of enamelled bronze. The pose and expression of the sculpture reflect Wilde's dandyish and ironic attitude. Nearby are two pillar-like pedestals which feature famous quotes from his writings. The location of the monument is significant because the house where Wilde grew up is just across the street on Merrion Square. It is a popular photographic attraction celebrating one of Dublin’s most famous sons.
Dublín, IRLANDA 2024
O'Connell Street Upper (O'Connell Street overall) is the principal and widest thoroughfare in Dublin city centre and a core axis of modern Irish history.
Location and Character: The street, located on the Northside of the River Liffey, is a broad and imposing boulevard, famous for its succession of monuments commemorating key figures in Irish nationalism and history. It was formerly named Sackville Street and was renamed in honour of Daniel O'Connell in 1924.
Key Monuments: The Upper part of the street is dominated by:
The Spire of Dublin: A modern, 120-meter-tall stainless steel needle, erected in 2003 on the site of the former Nelson's Pillar (destroyed in 1966).
The GPO (General Post Office): The neoclassical post office, famous for being the headquarters of the rebels during the 1916 Easter Rising. Bullet holes are still visible on its columns.
Statues: The street is lined with various statues, including those of James Larkin (trade union leader) and Charles Stewart Parnell (nationalist leader), which marks the street's northern end.
Historical Significance: The street is not only a commercial hub but an "open-air museum" of Ireland's rebellion and independence history, as it was the scene of numerous pivotal national events.