Ireland's historic National Theatre
Dublin, Leinster
+353 1 887 2200 (Administration) / +353 1 878 7222 (Box Office)
http://www.abbeytheatre.ie
info@abbeytheatre.ie
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Ireland's historic National Theatre |
26 Lower Abbey Street Dublin, Leinster +353 1 887 2200 (Administration) / +353 1 878 7222 (Box Office) http://www.abbeytheatre.ie info@abbeytheatre.ie |
Founded in 1904 by W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory, the Abbey is Ireland's national theatre and remains a crucial promoter of established and emerging Irish playwrights. The theatre's early years saw much controversy: the 1926 premiere of O'Casey's 'The Plough and the Stars' upset nationalist sensibilities and provoked Yeats to personally rebuke the audience, who felt offended by the depiction of the 1916 nationalist movement. Although generally less controversial these days, new Irish plays are still staged in the basement theatre, the Peacock. The theatre's Abbey Street premises has been open since 1961, but changes are afoot. The management is currently considering a move south of the river. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Cristiano Cardin |
 Photo: Cristiano Cardin |
A history of Irish politics |
2 College Green Dublin, Leinster +353 1 677 6801 http://www.bankofireland.ie/ careline@boimail.com |
This building was completed in 1729, during Dublin's Georgian heyday. It was home to the Irish parliament and it was from here that Henry Grattan - whose statue stands outside - declared "Ireland is now a nation": a defiant assertion of independence by the 18th-century Anglo-Irish Ascendancy. "Grattan's Parliament" was short-lived, however, and eventually forced to vote itself out of existence to endorse the Act of Union with Great Britain in 1801. The building became a bank in 1803 and you can now tour its Georgian splendour with guides in period costume. If you're having a hard time getting your head around the intricacies of Irish history, this is a good place to start. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emiliano Pennisi  |
 Photo: Caleb Chen |
 Photo: Eddie |
 Photo: Jose Carvalho |
 Photo: Mark Dickson |
 Photo: Oleg Kalenbet |
 Photo: Nick Graham |
 Photo: Paul Hardman |
 Photo: John O'Brien |
 Excellent independent book store |
36 College Green Dublin +353 1 679 6687 http://www.booksirish.com |
Located just across the street from Trinity College, this cosy shop is a browser's paradise. The poetry, drama, gay interest and literary criticism sections are especially noteworthy. Piles of bargain books are available for hunting through and you never know what you may find. Books Upstairs is also rather tastefully designed, with a small but charming balcony looking down on the main floor space below. The whole shop rather subtly mimics the design of the Bank of Ireland building across the street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
Not a gambling den! |
Malahide Road Marino Dublin, Leinster +353 1 833 1618 http://www.heritageireland.ie/... |
This unusual building is located at Marino, about three miles north of the city centre. Designed by Sir William Chambers, it is considered one of the finest 18th-century neo-classical buildings in Europe. Its history doesn't concern gambling, however: casino means a "small house". This building looks small from the outside but is in fact a work of spatial ingenuity: sixteen finely decorated rooms elegantly open out of each other and every inch of the interior is utilized. The Casino has been sensitively maintained (although some unsympathetic Victorian additions compromise the serenity of the whole) and while it is a little off the beaten track, it is well worth a visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Caroline van Oosten |
 Photo: Louise Barnewall |
 Photo: Susan K |
Reminder of Dublin's golden age |
Dame Street Dublin, Leinster +353 1 222 2204 |
The building was designed by Thomas Cooley and, when it was completed in 1779, originally housed the Royal Exchange. It is an elegant reminder of the wealth and opulence of Dublin in the city's 18th-century heyday. Today, City Hall is in the ownership of Dublin Corporation, which has restored the building beautifully. The great central atrium, complete with gold-leafed dome and mosaic floor, is one of the most impressive public spaces around. The history of Dublin is told in a vivid, computer-aided series of exhibitions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gregoire Boyd |
 Photo: Rainer Ebert |
 Intimate, spooky venue |
Dublin Castle Dame Street Dublin +353 1 671 3387 http://www.cryptartscentre.org/ info@cryptartscentre.org |
Located within Dublin Castle, the former centre of the British government in Ireland, this intimate theatre is housed in an old church crypt, and Dublin's several fringe companies generally make the best of its cramped but atmospheric space. Theatrical styles and quality vary greatly depending on the company involved, but the Centre itself has built up a considerable and dedicated audience of its own. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
A stunning site |
Custom House Quay Dublin 1 +353 1 878 7760 |
This Georgian building is a historically rich part of Dublin's urban landscape. Designed by James Gandon and finished in 1791, it fulfilled its designated purpose for only nine years: the 1800 Act of Union gave London control over Ireland's custom and excise, leaving the Custom House a mere symbol of former power. Election victory in 1921 for Sinn Fein saw the burning of the building, which militants considered a sign of British rule. Restoration work was finally finished as late as 1991. Pavilions, arcades and columns make up the façade, which is crowned by a vast copper dome and statue personifying Commerce. The visitor centre outlines the fascinating history of the building. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: G. Christopher Clark |
 Photo: mac_filko |
 Photo: Yvette |
 Photo: Darragh Sherwin |
 Photo: Philip Tomlinson |
 Photo: Neil Shephard |
Former seat of British power |
Dublin Castle Dublin +353 1 677 7129 http://www.dublincastle.ie/ info@dublincastle.ie |
Dublin Castle symbolised English rule for 700 years, ever since the Anglo-Normans built their fortress on this site. Later, the castle was to serve as the headquarters of the English-appointed Viceroy of Ireland. It was not until 1922 that it was finally handed over to the Irish Free State. Guided tours include the palatial State Apartments of the castle. Historical items of interest include a throne donated by King William of Orange and a variety of banners of the now-disbanded Knights of St Patrick. The Castle is very much a working series of buildings: it is used for State functions, and many government agencies are based here. There is a great deal for the visitor to see, including the Chapel Royal, the formal gardens, the Crypt Theatre and the splendid Chester Beatty Museum. In all ways, an essential visit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Craig Nagy |
 Photo: George J. Jerry |
 Photo: fiorentino_stefano |
 Photo: David Martinez |
 Photo: Peter |
 Photo: Felix Keller |
 Photo: Daniel McCarthy |
 Photo: álvaro |
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 Photo: George J. Jerry |
 Photo: Mike Sherling |
 Photo: cristin |
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 Photo: Evan Raskob |
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Lest we forget... |
Custom House Quay Dublin +353 1 605 7700 |
"Famine" is a moving sculpture in commemoration of those forced to emigrate during the famine of the 19th century. The sculpture by Rowan Gillespie was bought and donated to the people of Ireland by Norma Smurfit, one of Ireland's more altruistic millionaires. The six larger-than-life figures evoke a haunted feel in this part of the quays, which is all the more significant as many of the emigrants departed from this quay to Liverpool and the New World. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Houghton |
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 Photo: Pawel Malinowski |
 Photo: Patrick Goff |
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 Photo: Darren Purcell |
 Photo: Michael Kestell |
 Photo: Mandi M. Larsen |
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 Photo: Dean Evans |
 Photo: Peter Houghton |
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 Photo: matt northam |
 Photo: John Horsey |
 Photo: Wayne Harrison |
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 Death in pursuit of freedom |
Parnell Square East Dublin, Leinster +353 1 647 2498 (Head Office) / +353 1 874 3074 |
Opened by President Eamon de Valera in 1966 for the fiftieth anniversary of the Easter Rising, this rather austere park serves as a fitting tribute to its martyred leaders. Daithi Hanly designed the lawns, which encircle a mosaic-tiled pool. The mosaic depicts swords, shields and arms, all broken to represent peace. At one end of the park stands a bronze statue of the Children of Lir, sculpted by Oisin Kelly. The children are an important part of Irish folklore - according to legend, they were turned into swans by their jealous stepmother for 900 years. They became human again after this time but, frail and weak, died soon afterwards. To this day, killing a swan in Ireland is illegal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: emelef |
 Photo: Ricardo Silva |
 Photo: Danny |
 Photo: Neil Dorgan |
 Photo: Ana Silva |
 Photo: Fabio Paoleri |
 Photo: Barb Sheehy |
 Photo: patricia sahertian |
 Photo: Sean O'Donnell |
 Photo: Mark Waters |
 Photo: Matt Meyer |
 Photo: Mark Waters |
 Photo: Matt Meyer |
 Photo: Bryan Fernandez |
 Photo: Wolfgang Schwarz |
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 The original super-pub? |
11 South Great Georges Street Dublin +353 1 671 1220 http://www.globe.ie/ manager@globe.ie |
This self-consciously fashionable bar may seem a little intimidating at first, but that's only to be expected. When the Globe opened in the early 90s, it was Dublin's first overtly arty, cool pub, and it has since spawned a plethora of imitators. The large windows, exposed brick walls and chunky wooden tables lend an undeniable stylishness to the place, but upon entering you can't help but get the feeling that the fashion police are checking out your credentials. Still, it's pleasant and funky - and it does great sandwiches at lunchtime and even greater jazz on a Sunday afternoon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: turgidson |
A history of the black stuff |
St James's Gate Dublin +353 1 408 4800 http://www.guinnessstorehouse.... guinness-storehouse@guinness.com |
To many, Guinness is one of the most important features of Ireland. Completed at the cost of IR£30 million, the Guinness Storehouse is a fine addition to Dublin's ever-growing list of purpose-built attractions. Set inside a converted 18th century fermentation building, it comprises of six floors linked by a giant atrium in the shape of a pint glass. Although the actual brewery is not open to the public, the storehouse's new exhibition space outlines the 200-year history of the company and reveals many brewing secrets. The models and displays of the exhibition are followed by a short film and a glass of the famous brew! The storehouse is also home to the stylish Gravity Bar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pierre Phaneuf |
 Photo: Grant Mitchell |
 Photo: Stephen Strowes |
 Photo: Delski |
 Photo: Dion Gibson |
 Photo: Neil Mallett |
 Photo: Beth Fioritto |
 Photo: Louis Rossouw |
 Photo: Mathew Trainor |
 Photo: Seth Chisamore |
 Arthouse success story |
6 Eustace Street Dublin +353 1 677 8788 http://www.filmboard.ie/links.php |
As one of the most successful developments in Temple Bar, the Irish Film Centre (IFC) will keep the most discerning culture-vulture entertained for hours. Film buffs will enjoy the two art-house cinemas and fairly comprehensive bookshop. The café/bar/restaurant is worth visiting in its own right, if only to marvel at the award-winning architecture - as this light-filled building was constructed from the space between two older houses. The IFC also regularly hosts festival screenings, seminars and workshops. A fun and relaxing place in which to spend a hour or two. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
The crossing over |
Blackhall Place - Usher's Island Dublin, Leinster +353 1 605 7700 (Tourist Information Centre) |
This bridge is named after the Dublin author James Joyce, whose story 'The Dead' is set in a house facing the bridge. Santiago Calatrava is the mind behind this project. The bridge allows ships to go upriver. It also allows road access from Blackhall Place to Usher's Island. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Darragh J. Delany |
 Photo: Martin Cogley |
 Photo: Graham Butler |
 Photo: Manuel Martín |
 Photo: Darren G |
 Photo: kynthiabrunette |
 Photo: marino.rivadulla |
 Photo: keeley_mansfield |
Ireland's largest collection of art |
Merrion Square West Dublin, Leinster +353 1 661 5133 http://www.nationalgallery.ie/ info@ngi.ie |
Refresh your mind and soul with a visit to the National Gallery of Ireland, with its superb collection of European masterpieces. British, Dutch, Flemish, French, Italian, German and Spanish schools are all well represented, while the Yeats Room is a fantastic tribute to the work of this most creative of Irish families. The National Gallery also features a recently opened multimedia facility boasting touchscreen information on every exhibit. The café and bookstore on the ground floor are pleasant places to visit after taking in the gallery's many attractions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dahon |
 Photo: A I R M E N |
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 Photo: Annie |
 Photo: Jurrien van Duijkeren |
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Important prehistoric site |
Boyne Valley County Meath |
Newgrange is a passage tomb in the Boyne valley, 20 miles north-west of Dublin. It was constructed 5000 years ago and pre-dates both the Pyramids and Stonehenge. For centuries, Newgrange was the heart of an advanced Bronze Age civilization inhabiting the valley of the Boyne. The tomb was constructed in alignment with the night sky and the heavens: on the morning of the winter solstice, the first rays of the sun flood the inner chamber of the tomb for several minutes. Because of the site's enormous importance, access is limited. Demand for places on the tour is high, so plan your visit in advance. The nearby interpretative centre, however, is a perfectly adequate substitute for a visit to Newgrange itself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank Koehntopp |
 Photo: Frank Koehntopp |
 Photo: Emiliano B. |
 Photo: Danny Nicholson |
 Photo: Cati V. |
 Photo: Megan E. Foldenauer |
 Photo: Alan Jones |
Love-hate relationship |
Parkgate Street Dublin, Leinster +353 1 605 7700 (Tourism) |
All Dubliners have a love-hate relationship with the River Liffey. Watching the sun set into the river over the Ha'penny Bridge could bring a tear to the eye, yet a well-known Dublin song celebrates 'the Liffey as it stank like hell'. When a millennium clock was placed in the river it was immediately christened 'The Time in the Slime': the slime obscured the face and the countdown clock had to be removed. The river is in the process of being cleaned up and it thankfully no longer smells as bad as it once did. For those interested in fishing, the river is rich in perch, pike, and roach. Salmon and trout can also be taken between Lucan and the Memorial Park in Islandbridge. Coarse fish anglers should note that these stretches observe club regulations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Caroline van Oosten |
 Photo: Nick Graham |
 Photo: orangebrompton |
 Photo: Fabrizio Angius |
 Photo: lookbeyond |
 Photo: Jerry Godwin |
 Photo: *Judy* |
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 Photo: Mark Wiewel |
 Photo: Dave McKane |
 Photo: Trey Wheeler |
 Photo: Andrea Flannery |
 Photo: Mark McGowan |
 Photo: Caroline Reusch |
 Photo: Eamon Brett |
 Photo: Lisa Stout |
 Photo: Arvydas |
 Photo: Kit Logan |
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 Childhood home of Irish playwright |
33 Synge Street Dublin 8, Leinster +353 1 475 0854 shawhouse@dublintourism.ie |
Though sometimes overshadowed by the more celebrated Irish authors, George Bernard Shaw was a Nobel prize winner and the noted author of many plays, including Pygmalion. He was born and spent his early years in this house. He remained in the house until his parents finally separated and his mother took him to England. Although little of the Shaws' personal effects are on view, the sombre mood of a Victorian family in trouble is conveyed rather effectively. For literature enthusiasts, a visit here should be an informative part of your Irish itinerary. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Saurabh C |
 Fireworks, Carnivals and a Ceili! |
St Stephen's Green House (Earlsfort Terrace) Dublin, Leinster +353 1 676 3205 http://www.stpatricksday.ie info@stpatricksday.ie |
The event starts with a night parade winding its way through the city. Be prepared for fire-breathing monsters, giants and creatures of the night, as the parade offers a heady mixture of bands, pageants, carnival costumes and pageantry. If you feel like joining in, take part in the Monster Céili in St Stephen's Green. It is arguably Ireland's biggest street-theatre carnival, with an impressive fireworks display round up the events. Because of the increased popularity of the event, the number of days dedicated to the festival have been increasing over the years. Check the website for updated event information and schedules. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Declan McAleese |
 Photo: Karl O'Brien |
 Photo: Phil Romans |
 Photo: Declan McAleese |
 Photo: Alex Yarmoshko |
 Photo: Alex Yarmoshko |
 Photo: Kasia & Szymon |
 Photo: Kasia & Szymon |
 Photo: Stuart Pearson |
Ireland's premier university |
College Green Dublin +353 1 608 1000 http://www.tcd.ie/ |
Founded in 1592 by Elizabeth I, Trinity is Ireland's most prestigious university, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The college consists of a series of fine open squares and College Park. The major attraction at Trinity is the exquisitely decorated illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells, which dates from 800 A.D. and contains 340 folios which illustrate the four New Testament gospels. The Old Library is also a worth a visit for its antiquarian books. The College Chapel and Berkeley Library should not be missed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jackie Goyette |
 Photo: Liz Edwards |
 Photo: Derek Gottlieb |
 Photo: Patella |
 Photo: Renee Lanney |
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 Photo: Magnus Holm |
 Photo: Gavin Joyce |
 Photo: Michael Dunn |
 Photo: Loren Picco |
 Photo: Niran Fajemisin |
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