EXCELLENT STREET IMAGES

CLONTARF AND SCOTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

March 27, 2024 by infomatique

A WELCOMING COMMUNITY IN DUBLIN

I photographed this church a number of times over the last ten years but I never got around investigating its history.

Located on Howth Road in the vibrant Dublin suburb of Clontarf, the Clontarf & Scots Presbyterian Church is a welcoming house of worship and a hub of community activity. The church proudly belongs to the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.

The church’s roots date back to the 1860s when the United Presbyterian Church of Scotland began a mission to serve its members who were residing in Dublin.

In 1888, a dedicated church was built by noted architect Thomas Drew, who specialised in ecclesiastical designs. Interestingly, the original Scots Presbyterian Church on Seán McDermott Street was merged with the Clontarf congregation, giving rise to the current unified church.

The church showcases a dignified Neo-Classical architectural style. This style is evident in its symmetrical façade, clean lines, and columned portico. The church shares architectural similarities with the adjacent Howth Road National School, a testament to their common history and construction.

Clontarf & Scots Presbyterian Church fosters a warm and accepting environment for everyone. They prioritise creating a sense of belonging within the community. Following the Presbyterian tradition, the church emphasises a non-hierarchical structure. Their leadership and minister are chosen by the congregation.

Adjoining the church is the Scots’ Hall, a valuable community space available for rental during the week. This hall hosts various activities and events, further extending the church’s role within the Clontarf neighbourhood.

Website: https://clontarfchurch.ie/
Phone: +353 (0)1 833 2588

MARINO CRESCENT THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE CREATOR OF DRACULA

March 26, 2024 by infomatique

BRAM STOKER

Marino Crescent: A Dublin Landmark Steeped in History and Literature

Nestled in the Dublin suburb of Clontarf lies Marino Crescent, a charming crescent-shaped street with a rich history. Bordering a small public park, it’s a place that exudes a sense of peace and community. However, for literature enthusiasts, Marino Crescent holds a particular significance – it was once the childhood home of the famed author, Bram Stoker.

Born at number 15 Marino Crescent in 1847 (now known simply as “The Crescent”), Stoker spent his formative years surrounded by the sights and sounds of this Dublin neighbourhood. The small park, now named Bram Stoker Park, likely served as a playground for the young Stoker, sparking his imagination and perhaps even influencing his later work.

Bram Stoker’s most enduring legacy is undoubtedly his 1897 masterpiece, Dracula. This gothic horror novel, which tells the chilling tale of a Transylvanian vampire preying on London, has captivated readers for generations. While vampires existed in folklore before, Stoker’s portrayal of Dracula as a charming yet monstrous aristocrat helped to solidify the modern image of the vampire in popular culture.

Dracula’s impact extends far beyond the horror genre. The novel explores themes of societal anxieties prevalent in Victorian England, such as the fear of decline, the allure of the exotic, and the changing role of women. These themes continue to resonate with audiences today, making Dracula a timeless classic.

Stoker’s influence on popular culture is undeniable. Dracula has been adapted countless times for film, television, theatre, and even video games. The enduring popularity of the vampire trope, from sparkly teenage heartthrobs to classic monsters, owes a significant debt to Stoker’s groundbreaking work.

Marino Crescent, therefore, transcends its physical location. It becomes a tangible link to the creative spark that ignited a literary phenomenon. A walk through the park or a glance at the houses lining the crescent can’t help but evoke a sense of connection to Bram Stoker and the enduring legacy of Dracula.

I EXPLORE A SHORT SECTION OF HOWTH ROAD

March 26, 2024 by infomatique

SUNDAY 24 MARCH

On Sunday 24 March I explored a small section of Howth Road but I plan to explore its full length in stages beginning in April.

Howth Road is a significant route that loops inland through the charming village of Raheny, located in Dublin, Ireland. This road is home to a variety of architectural curiosities and historical landmarks that make Raheny a place of interest for visitors and travellers.

One of the key features of Raheny is its train station. Raheny railway station serves the DART suburban railway system and the Dublin-Belfast main line, making it a convenient hub for those wishing to explore the wider area.

In the heart of Raheny, you’ll find the ruins of St. Assam’s Church. This historic church, now a ruin, was rebuilt in 1712 and is locally known as “the old Protestant church”. Its presence adds a touch of historical charm to the village.

Another unique feature of Raheny is the “Doh-Ray-Mee” cottages, also known as Crescent Cottages. These 18th-century houses, built in a semi-circle, were constructed for workers on the then Bank of Ireland governor’s estate. Their unusual layout and historical significance add to the character of Raheny.

The Church of Our Lady Mother of Divine Grace (what a long name) is another notable landmark in Raheny. This church serves as the local Roman Catholic community’s primary place of worship. All masses are transmitted via webcam, making it a modern place of worship that still retains its traditional charm.

Lastly, All Saints’ Church is the Church of Ireland Parish Church of Raheny. This church, built in 1889, is quite a dominant presence in Raheny village. It replaced the historic St. Assam’s church, the ruins of which can still be seen in the village today.

In summary, Raheny, with its rich history, architectural curiosities, and convenient transport links, offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a fascinating place for any visitor or traveller to explore.

BADHAM RESTAURANT

March 26, 2024 by infomatique

93A HOWTH ROAD CLONTARF DUBLIN 3

I have yet to try this restaurant but I will take this opportunity to provide some information.

Fusion Cuisine: Badam offers a unique combination of Indian and Nepalese dishes, giving you a chance to explore a wider range of South Asian flavours.
Fresh Ingredients: Their website emphasises using high-quality ingredients in their food.
Established in 2021: Relatively new on the Dublin scene, they seem focused on building a reputation for quality.
Early Bird Menu: They have a special menu with a selection of dishes at a set price, available Monday through Thursday from 4pm to 7:30pm.

Location: Situated at 93A Howth Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3

“Badam” translates to “almond” in Hindi and several other South Asian languages like Urdu and Marathi . Almonds are a common ingredient in South Asian cuisine, often used in desserts, curries, and even beverages. It might be a reference to the restaurant’s use of nuts and spices, or simply a pleasant-sounding word.

Here are some resources you can explore for more information:
Badam Restaurant Website: https://badam.ie/
Tripadvisor Reviews: While there aren’t a large number of reviews yet, you can get some insights from diners who’ve visited https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Restaurant_Review-g186605-d24028807-Reviews-Badam-Dublin_County_Dublin.html

THE DAFFODIL A BLOOM STEEPED IN SYMBOLISM

March 23, 2024 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED 22 MARCH 2024

Daffodils, those cheerful harbingers of spring, aren’t just a splash of colour after a grey winter. They hold a captivating place in history, art, and folklore, their symbolism evolving across cultures and time. Let’s take a journey through the daffodil’s rich cultural tapestry.

Mythological Beginnings

The Greeks had a tragic tale for the narcissus (the broader genus to which daffodils belong). Narcissus, a beautiful youth, became so enamoured by his reflection that he perished, and in his place, the flower grew. This myth ties the daffodil with vanity and self-absorption. But there’s another Greek story – that of Persephone, abducted to the underworld. It’s said she was picking daffodils when this happened, linking them to ideas of the underworld and potential rebirth.

Symbolism in Art and Literature

Romanticism: For poets like William Wordsworth, the daffodil was pure joy. His “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” paints a scene of vibrant daffodils that “flash upon that inward eye” in moments of solitude. They became emblems of nature’s power to offer solace and inspiration.
Paintings: Pre-Raphaelites and other artists saw the daffodil differently. It could be a symbol of unrequited love, longing, or even death due to its association with Greek myths.
Modern interpretations: The daffodil remains a potent image in contemporary art and literature, often symbolising hope, resilience, and the fleeting nature of beauty.
Daffodils as Symbols Across the World

China: Here, the daffodil stands for good fortune and prosperity. It’s especially beloved during the Lunar New Year.
Wales: The daffodil is the national flower, worn proudly on St. David’s Day. It’s a symbol of Welsh identity.
Cancer Awareness: In many countries, the daffodil is adopted by cancer societies as a symbol of hope and survival.

The Curious Case of British Daffodils

While synonymous with Britain, daffodils surprisingly aren’t truly native! It’s believed Romans introduced them during their occupation. However, some wild varieties, like the delicate Tenby daffodil in Wales, might have deeper roots in the Isles.

The Daffodil’s Enduring Appeal

From its complex mythological origins to its joyful presence in modern life, the daffodil has proven its remarkable ability to transcend time. It’s a reminder that even the simplest flower can carry layers of meaning, transforming our experience of the natural world. Whether you see it as a harbinger of spring, a symbol of survival, or simply a thing of beauty, the daffodil continues to inspire and enchant.