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: claudia maurer |
 Photo: Allie O'Brien |
 Photo: Debbi Voisey |
The official Presidential residence |
Phoenix Park Dublin +353 1 617 1000 webmaster@aras.irlgov.ie |
Aras an Uachtaráin is the official residence of the President of Ireland and has the Phoenix Park - the largest city park in Europe - as its garden. Built in 1751 as a rather luxurious home for the park ranger, the house became the residence of successive viceroys, who oversaw British rule in Ireland. In 1938 it became home to the president of the newly-independent Ireland and today welcomes some 15,000 visitors each year. Public tours are conducted from Monday to Saturday. There is no provision for pre-bookings and tickets - which are free of charge - are dispensed on a first-come, first-served basis at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: azcritter |
 Photo: Mark Preston-Smith |
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: STEPHEN CULLEN |
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Bargains galore |
19a Main Street Blackrock Co. Dublin +353 1 2833 522 http://www.blackrockmarket.com info@blackrockmarket.com |
This popular south Dublin market is located in a Georgian house with all its features virtually intact. Over 50 stalls are collected here, selling jewellery, pine furniture, antiques, bric-a-brac, shoes, clothing, books, music and much more. With its restaurant and cafe, the Blackrock Market makes for a very pleasant Sunday afternoon excursion. The market has a great reputation amongst Dublin's bargain hunters. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shannon Dyck |
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Dramatic coastal walk |
Bray Head, 20 kilometers south of Dublin Bray, Co. Dublin +353 1 605 7700 |
The seaside resort of Bray is at the end of the southern reach of the DART line, marking the end of Dublin's city limits. The city can't expand any more this way in any case, as Bray Head juts out like a dam against the urban spread. A cliff path runs along the coast to the pretty port of Greystones and is a favourite walk for fit Dubliners. There are some stunning views of the Irish Sea from the cliffs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paddy Benson |
 Photo: Geraldine Moorkens Byrne |
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Modernist classic |
Store Street Dublin +353 1 836 6111 |
Loved by some and loathed by others, Dublin's central bus station is one of the more interesting contemporary architectural features of the city. The building was designed by Michael Scott between 1945 and 1953 and was one of the first modern spaces in Dublin that attempted to integrate art and architecture, utilising elements like glazed facades and a controversial pavilionised top storey. The building was also ground-breaking because it attempted to incorporate a theatre in the basement and a restaurant on the top floor with great views over the city. This visionary project failed, however. The powers-that-be were unsuccessful in their attempts to promote the building properly and the restaurant and theatre were eventually abandoned. Aesthetics aside, if you're travelling out of the city, this is where you get your bus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ilari Laitinen |
 Photo: Paul Howes |
Traditional Irish music centre |
Smithfield Village Dublin +353 1 817 3820 http://www.ceol.ie info@ceol.ie |
This relatively new venue in the heart of Smithfield, one of the oldest parts of Dublin, celebrates the story of Irish traditional song, music and dance. The centre features interactive touchscreens, music videos and a 180-degree widescreen auditorium, all of which investigate the contribution that Irish music has made to world culture. Admission: IEP5 for adults, IEP4 for students and senior citizens, IEP3.50 for children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: abirioukov |
 Photo: abirioukov |
Devoted to the history of this Galway-made ring |
Quay Street Galway +353 91 56 3081 |
This premises functions as both a museum and a jeweller's, which sells the traditional Claddagh rings. The ring's design comes from a group of finger-rings called faith rings.Two hands clasping a heart is a characteristic feature of these rings. The "Claddagh Ring" is distinctive because it has two hands holding a heart which is in turn surmounted by a crown. The Claddagh is the old fishing area of Galway, and was ruled independently until 1934. In the Claddagh the rings were used to indicate marriage, worn with the crown towards the knuckle when unwed and worn with the crown toward the finger tip on marriage. The rings were handed down from mother to daughter over the years. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Francesca Michelacci |
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 |
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The Irish Parliament |
Leinster House Kildare Street Dublin +353 1 678 9911 |
The current Irish Parliament has governed since 1922 and consists of the Dail (House of Representives) and the Seanad Eireann (Senate). Before its dissolution in 1800, the Irish Parliament was located in the present Bank of Ireland building on College Green. Both houses of the Irish Parliament are currently housed in the majestic mansion that is Leinster House. With a view over Merrion Square and the opportunity to see the ornate Seanad chamber, it is worth arranging a tour here. Leinster House is, for security reasons, normally not open to the public. Tours are therefore by arrangement only: for more information either telephone or ask at the Kildare Street entrance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Sinclair |
Get away from it all |
Dalkey Island, 10 miles south of Dublin Dalkey, Dublin +353 1 605 7700 (Dublin Tourist Information) http://www.megalithomania.com/... |
Dalkey is one of the more charming (and wealthy) parts of Dublin. In the summer, you can hire a boat to Dalkey Island where you'll find a bird sanctuary, a Martello tower and the ruins of the early Irish St. Begnet's Church. Dublin is curious in that it can provide these wildernesses so close to the city. You're unlikely to be trampled by hordes of tourists on this little-visited island. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lady_schrapnell |
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Climb every mountain |
Southern Cross Route Dublin, Leinster +353 1 605 7700 (Dublin Tourism Centre) |
Dubliners like to think they own the whole country and the mountains south of the city are no exception - although strictly called the Wicklow Mountains, the city has claimed them as its own. Despite their relatively modest height, these mountains are wild and generally uninhabited, providing hundreds of square miles of open country, and only an hour from the city centre. In the past, the area was the perfect hideout for all manner of bandits, rebels and murderers. In the 19th century, the British built the Military Road to tame these undesirables and you can take it to this day - from Rathfarnham in the southern suburbs to Aghavannagh high up in the mountains...if you dare! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Patrick Reilly |
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Stargazing by night |
Dunsink Lane Castleknock Dublin +353 1 838 7959 http://www.dunsink.dias.ie/ |
Originally part of Trinity College, the Dunsink Observatory houses the astronomical section of the School of Cosmic Physics, which is now a part of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies. The observatory regularly hosts public stargazing nights where admission is free, although tickets are required. Open nights are held on the first and third Wednesday nights of the dark winter months. Prospective visitors must write for tickets enclosing a stamped self-addressed envelope. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Murphy |
Green square in the heart of Galway |
Near Great Southern Hotel City Centre Galway +353 91 56 3081 (Tourist Information) |
The square was originally called the "Fair Green". However, in 1710 Mayor Edward Eyre, who had inherited this area of land from his father, had the name changed. This small park was subsequently known as "Eyre Square". The square is in the heart of Galway city and is its largest open space. In the center of the square is the John F. Kennedy Memorial commemorating the President's visit in 1963. It was here that the president addressed the people of Galway and received the freedom of the city. In the park there is a bronze plaque erected in honour of the President. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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One of Killarney's most celebrated beauty spots |
Beaufort Killarney, Co. Kerry +353 64 3 1023 http://www.killarney.ie/dunloe... |
Despite the seemingly never-ending summer stream of travellers on foot, pony and in jaunting car, the Gap of Dunloe remains a spectacular beauty spot. Viewing the Gap during the quiet winter months can be preferable, though it may be difficult to find a long enough dry period to walk the four mile stretch. The rewards are great: beautiful mountain lakes, cascading rivers on the mountainsides, and gravity-defying sheep in every visible crevice. As travellers reach the top of the Gap, the lakes spread out in a breath-taking vista. The road then descends into Black Valley and leads to motor boats bound for Killarney across the lakes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shivaun Finn |
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Classic and contemporary plays |
1 Cavendish Row Dublin, Leinster +353 1 874 4045 / +353 1 874 6042 http://www.gate-theatre.ie/ info@gate-theatre.ie |
Hilton Edwards and Micheal MacLiammoir first founded the Gate Theatre in 1928. It is housed in the annex of the magnificent Rotunda building on the top of O'Connell Street. The company generally produces a repertoire of classic Irish and international plays. Their acclaimed Beckett Festival played to packed houses in both London and New York. The Gate's splendid auditorium has recently been renovated and the charming curved bar is a very fine spot for a drink before and after the show. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Howard Latham |
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Home of the Easter Rising |
O' Connell St Dublin +353 1 705 7000 |
Designed by Francis Johnston in 1818, the General Post Office (GPO) on O'Connell Street is known as the site of the 1916 Easter Rising. Irish Volunteers seized the building on Easter Monday and for six days held out against the British until the GPO was set on fire. The building was completely restored in 1929. Inside, stands a bronze statue depicting the death of the mythical Irish warrior Cuchulainn, dedicated to those who died in the uprising. The GPO has acquired iconic status; demonstrations and protests are often held outside. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dublin's finest necropolis |
Finglas Road Dublin +353 1 830 1133 http://www.glasnevin-cemetery.ie/ cemetery@indigo.ie. |
A visit to a graveyard may not be your idea of a jolly day out, but Glasnevin Cemetery is one of the most fascinating places in Dublin. It is the final resting place of some of the most famous figures in Irish history, including former Irish presidents Eamon de Valera and Sean T. O'Reilly. Other political heroes buried in its atmospheric grounds include Michael Collins, Daniel O'Connell, Charles Stewart Parnell and Roger Casement. The graves of literary figures such as Gerard Manley Hopkins and Brendan Behan can also be found. Buy a heritage map to find the key graves or turn up on Wednesday or Friday at 2.30pm for a free guided tour which lasts two hours - meet at the O'Connell Round Tower. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beautifully restored Edwardian building |
Merrion Street Dublin +353 1 619 4116 |
The last great British building in Dublin, this Edwardian edifice began life as the home of the Royal College of Science in 1911, before construction was even complete. Once finished, the Free State Government became the college's neighbour and used the north wing as a place of refuge during the Civil War. The building was then leased to University College Dublin for many years until, in 1989, it was lavishly restored and became the home of the Irish government. The buildings can only be visited on guided tours. The tour includes many offices where you can see portraits of Irish politicians. Prominent amongst them is a portrait of Countess Markievicz - a leading force in the Easter Rising and of course, the first female Cabinet Minister in Ireland. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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: Richard Warren |
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A 133-mile mountain and coastline walk |
Old Kenmare Road Killarney, Co. Kerry +353 64 3 4712 |
A walker's version of the Ring of Kerry, this footpath goes through the Macgillycuddy Reeks and then around the Iveragh Peninsula including Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, and Kenmare. Much of the circuit is based on old butter transportation roads and routes between ancient Christian settlements. It's filled with natural beauty and ruins from bygone days. Walkers may find it more peaceful than the more readily accessible scenic spots. Although the Kerry Way is clearly marked, walkers should carry Ordinance Survey maps 78, 83, and 84. These are available at the Killarney Tourist Office and numerous shops. Walking boots, waterproofs and a good supply of food are essential before setting out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Prop up the bar |
Henrietta Street Constitution Hill Dublin +353 1 874 4840 http://www.kingsinns.ie info@kingsinns.ie |
King's Inns is James Gandon's last building. Gandon closed off the then much-sought-after Henrietta Street address to create this fine public building. The charming cupola was added in 1816 by Francis Johnston and construction was completed the following year. The gardens are a beautiful place to take a stroll, once you've been inside and seen the dining hall and Registry of Deeds. Edward Smyth is responsible for the exquisite caryatids on the west façade. Note the man holding the quill and book: he is a personification of the Law itself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eric van Berkel |
 Photo: Caitríona King |
Among the prettiest small historical towns in Ireland |
1 Main St Kinsale, Co. Cork +353 21 477 2234 |
Kinsale is an exceptionally picturesque small town with an interesting history. The defeat of the Irish forces and their Spanish allies in the Battle of Kinsale in 1601 signified the end of Ireland's old Gaelic order. An important naval base in the 17th and 18th centuries, Kinsale is today a popular yachting centre and is host to a number of international sailing events throughout the year. It is also famous for the quality of the cuisine and holds an annual International Gourmet Festival, which attracts food lovers from all over. Visit Desmond Castle, which was built around 1500. It is known locally as the "French Prison". Also visit the Old Courthouse, now the regional museum, which has a toll board listing the local taxes in 1788. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ramón L. García |
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Sparkling literary lineage |
St. Patrick's Close Dublin, Leinster +353 1 454 3511 http://www.marshlibrary.ie/ keeper@marshlibrary.ie |
Built in 1701, Marsh's Library is the oldest public library in Ireland. The architect, Sir William Robinson, also designed much of Dublin Castle. Commissioned by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh, Archbishop of Dublin, it was opened in 1707. The library, housed in a splendid Queen Anne mansion, is tucked behind St Patrick's Cathedral and set amid very fine formal gardens. The interior of the library is very decorative, with gilded gables adorning the bookcases and a mitre towering over the shelves. Visitors can see the cage-like alcoves in which readers were locked when they wished to study rare books. The collection of books from previous centuries is of great interest. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rafael Szmit |
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Buck Mulligan's house |
Sandycove Dublin +353 1 280 9265 |
The Martello Tower is one of 15 defense towers originally built to protect the Irish coastline from invasion by Napoleon. The tower now holds a museum devoted to the life and work of James Joyce, who made it the setting for the first chapter of his sprawling epic novel Ulysses. Joyce himself briefly stayed at the tower in the early 1900s as a guest of Oliver St. John Gogarty, who became a model for Buck Mulligan, the first character to make an appearance in the novel. The museum contains some of Joyce's personal correspondence, photographs and a very special edition of Ulysses illustrated by Matisse. The annual Bloomsday Joycean pilgrimage on June 16th also starts from here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Macinnis |
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Witness an informal chat |
Liffey Street Dublin, Leinster |
On Liffey Street (near the Ha'penny Bridge) you will come across two bronze ladies having a chat. This charming sculpture formed part of a sculpture symposium to mark Dublin's millennium in 1988. Hilariously, an artistic thief snatched one of the ladies' bags (larger than life, bronze and very heavy) not long after the statue was erected. It has since been returned! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ken Heffernan |
Georgian elegance |
Merrion Street Dublin +353 1 661 2369 |
Merrion Square is the grandest of the city's great set-piece squares. The park in the centre is owned by the Catholic Church, which has leased it to the city. It is a beautifully maintained green space in the heart of the city dotted with sculpture and public art, the most visible of which is probably the monument to Oscar Wilde in the north-west corner. Wilde spent his childhood at 1, Merrion Square, while W.B. Yeats lived at No. 82. On Sundays, artists hang their works for sale on the railings surrounding the park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New addition to city landscape |
Wellington Quay Temple Bar Dublin +353 1 605 7700 |
The Millennium Bridge is one of the finest additions to the city landscape in recent times and is certain to become as loved as the neighbouring Ha'penny Bridge. The winner of a design competition with 153 entries, its designers describe the parabolic arch as "simple, lightweight, transparent and structurally daring". The pedestrian bridge is wheelchair accessible and should be crossed at night so that the subtle and beautiful lighting can be appreciated. The span was actually constructed fifty miles from Dublin - in Carlow - and was the single largest object to have ever been transported over land in Ireland. It only took 25 minutes to lift the structure into place - a fitting millennial tribute to twentieth-century design and technology. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Italo Camerino |
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Dublin's famous fishmonger |
Grafton Street Dublin, Leinster +353 1 605 7700 |
Erected to commemorate Dublin's own millennium, a statue of Molly Malone pensively stares at passers-by on the southern end of Grafton Street. Ever ready for a comic put-down, Dubliners immediately christened the well-endowed Molly "the tart with the cart". Molly Malone - in case you didn't know - was a fictional fishmonger who sold cockles and mussels and was immortalised in a popular Dublin song. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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: Erin Gern |
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The spirit of a new Dublin |
O'Connell Street Dublin, Leinster +353 1 222 2222 (Dublin City Council) http://www.dublincity.ie/livin... customerservices@dublincity.ie |
O'Connell Street has been rejuvenated. The spire monument, erected in January 2003, has replaced the Nelson's Pillar, following the removal of the Anna Livia Monument. This symbolizes the spirit of a new Dublin and a time capsule has been put under the Spire, to mark its unveiling. But this is not all. The construction of the plaza surrounding the squire has begun, so tourists and locals can look forward to it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Bruni |
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 Photo: Vince Gannon |
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 Photo: Ultharicus (Cristian |
 Photo: Kate Spanos |
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 Photo: Stephen J. Rouatt |
 Photo: Christian Böhning |
 Photo: Jaime RoldanCorrales |
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 Photo: Tom Golesworthy |
 Photo: Pam Bullock |
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A history of Irish whiskey! |
Bow Street Smithfield Village Dublin, Leinster +353 1 807 2355 http://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/ reservations@jamesondistillery.ie |
If whiskey is your poison, get ready to indulge to your heart's content. After the educational tour of the distillery, and your careful attention to the historical overview, retire to the in-house pub and make a little whiskey history of your own. There's also a restaurant with fixed price menus for lunch and dinner. Guided tour is EUR6.50; full tutored whiskey tasting, complete with taste comparisons, is an additional EUR6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ekaterina Logunova |
 Photo: Becca |
 Photo: ~Annoula |
 Photo: Joyce Neville |
 Photo: Elliott Blackburn |
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 Photo: Patrick Beckhelm |
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Fine 18th-century residence |
Rathfarnham Road Dublin +353 1 493 9462 http://www.heritageireland.ie/... rathfarnhamcastle@ealga.ie |
The exact date of the foundation of Rathfarnham Castle is still something of a mystery, although experts put it at about 1583. Built by the Yorkshire man Adam Loftus, the castle has a colourful and interesting history and was declared a national monument in the mid-1980s. The castle contains some of the finest 18th-century interiors to be seen in any property in Ireland. Admission: EUR1.90 for adults, EUR1.20 for seniors, EUR.70 for children, EUR5 for a family pass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Johann Taljaard |
 Photo: Stephen Lang |
Scenic drive along mountains and lake shores |
Muckross Rd Killarney, Co. Kerry http://www.ringofkerrytourism.com |
This 110-mile loop around the Iveragh Penisula is one of Kerry's premier scenic drives. There are several tours available if you do not have your own transport. Bikers may find themselves struggling behind large buses for much of the trip or hair-raisingly close to cliff edges as faster traffic attempts to pass. Traditionally, the route begins in Killarney, onto Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Caherciveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem, and Moll's Gap. Be sure to stop at Ladies View and see the entire Long Range of the three lakes, Black Valley, and in the distance, the Gap of Dunloe. When visiting Killarney in 1861, Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting could not contain their admiration of this view. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: oceanfree |
 Photo: Russell Wieland |
 Photo: Jenn May |
 Photo: Dan Anderson |
 Photo: Paul Stevens |
 Photo: Marissa Mitchell |
 Photo: czang108 |
 Photo: April Dominello |
 Photo: Stacy |
 Photo: Dave Reinhardt |
 Photo: Simona Pira |
 Photo: Courtney Ferguson |
 Photo: Aaron Boyd |
 Photo: Surfer-2007 |
Europe's first maternity hospital |
Parnell Square West Dublin +353 1 873 0700 http://www.rotunda.ie/ MGeary@rotunda.ie |
When the Rotunda Hospital opened in 1748, it was the first maternity hospital in Europe. Founded by surgeon, Bartholomew Mosse, the hospital takes its name from the great rotunda at its east end. Built by John Ensor as a venue for fund-raising occasions and concerts, Franz Liszt graced its stage in 1843. 62 years later, Sinn Fein was founded here by Arthur Griffiths. The latter's property is now home to the Gate Theatre. Visit the baroque chapel on the first floor. Stuccodore Cramillion, also responsible for the rococo plasterwork, created the wonderful ceiling in 1755. Stop in Conway's pub for a drink after your visit. The same age as the hospital, it has been the firm friend of many anxious fathers-to-be for centuries. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brian Cafaro |
 Photo: Paulo Rená |
 Photo: Oscar Vicente Huguet |
 Photo: rich collins |
Spectacular Public Space |
Arran Quay Dublin, Leinster +353 1 817 3800 |
Smithfield is the largest purpose-built open civic space in Europe. The dramatic gas braziers light up the square on Saturday evenings and on other important occasions. The long-running horse-fair dominates the square on the first Sunday of every month, and you can watch the action from the 55m high Jameson Chimney, crowned by a two-tier glass observation platform. Popular venues include Chief O'Neill's Hotel, the Kelly and Ping restaurant, along with several other craft shops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Mauer |
 Photo: Crossthebreeze |
 Photo: B. Mueller |
 Photo: Guilherme Degasperi |
 Photo: Simon Lazewski |
Atmospheric ruined monastery |
39271 Meetinghouse Lane Dublin +353 1 872 1490 |
This monastery - formerly one of the most important in Ireland - is now in ruins. Visitors can admire the vaulted chamber of the Chapter House and follow the display which outlines the rich history of the abbey. Although founded in 1139 by Benedictine monks, the monastery became Cistercian only eight years later. During the Reformation, the Abbey became the venue for meetings of the Council of Ireland. Shortly after Silken Thomas Fitzgerald's public renunciation of Henry VIII and subsequent execution in 1534, the monastery was dissolved. It became a quarry, whose stones were used in many 17th-century constructions, including the Essex Bridge which was replaced by the Grattan Bridge in 1874. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frank van der Maeden |
 Photo: Frank van der Maeden |
Bustling urban space |
Temple Bar 12 E Essex St Dublin +353 1 677 2255 http://www.temple-bar.ie/index... |
The redevelopment of Temple Bar as a cultural quarter opened up a number of little spaces in the city-centre and each has developed its own distinct character. Temple Bar Square is a bustling space with much pedestrian cross-traffic. Young people like to congregate here on sunny days to watch the world go by and there are usually buskers on hand to entertain the masses. On Saturdays you can browse through the regular book and music market. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Javier Lago |
 Photo: Robin Nicholl |
 Photo: pxkls |
 Photo: richietigan |
Spectacular 60 foot waterfall |
Kenmare Road Killarney, Co. Kerry +353 64 3 1633 |
Well worth the short climb up stone steps, this waterfall is a stunning display, falling 60 feet into a churning basin of rocks and foam. Legend has it that a bewitched young man created the waterfall. Under the charm of a cruel spell, he lived as handsome man by day, but was transformed into a boar each night. One night his secret was revealed and in his humiliation he became a ball of fire, bounced off the top of Mangerton Mountain, and plunged into the Devil's Punch Bowl. This caused a great chasm in the side of the Devil's Punch Bowl and the resulting rush of water created Torc Waterfall. After viewing the waterfall, you can continue up the mountain for a short distance for a beautiful view across the MacGillycuddy Reeks. If the weather is clear, you can see the Slieve Mish Mountains on the far side of Dingle Bay. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: saspojaspo |
 Photo: Mark Leary |
 Photo: Brian |
 Photo: Dion DeVries |
 Photo: Amit Lieberman |
 Photo: RememberTheName |
 Photo: ponder_irl |
 Photo: aethernet - k arthur |
 Photo: Michael Ryan |
 Photo: Eric Oehler |
 Photo: badgerben03 |
 Photo: Bruce A. Roberts |
 Photo: Moward |
 Photo: (c)Anthony Kearney |
 Photo: Jessica N. O'Brien |
 Photo: Cormac Healy |
Seat of learning |
College Road Cork +353 21 490 3000 http://www.ucc.ie/ information@ucc.ie |
The elegant campus of University College Cork lies a little to the west of the city centre. The College was founded as Queen's College in 1845 and today is a constituent college of the National University of Ireland. The main buildings were ranged about three sides of a quadrangle, with the lecture rooms in the West Wing, the towered entrance, examination hall and library in the North Wing, and the residents of the President and Vice-President in the East Wing. Some vestiges of this scheme remain today. The president's garden behind the East Wing was originally walled off but is now open to students. The College is also home to the Boole Library and the Granary Theatre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mt. Holyoke College |
 Photo: Ingo Hager |
 Photo: Mariusz Kamionka |
 Photo: Msmith1013 |
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