THE 2024 PHOTO BLOG

TESCO EXPRESS OPENED BESIDE THE TRAM STOP THIS TIME LAST YEAR

This time last year Tesco Ireland opened the doors to a Tesco Express in Smithfield Dublin but today [17 December 2023] was my first time to visit it. As I could not come up with anything else new to say about the area I asked Google’s Bard AI to describe Smithfield and here is what I got:

In the heart of Dublin’s vibrant Northside, lies a neighbourhood steeped in history and brimming with a unique character – Smithfield. From its bustling market square to its charming cobblestone streets, Smithfield is a tapestry of old and new, where tradition intertwines with modern trends, creating a captivating experience for those who venture within its borders.

Nestled on the banks of the River Liffey, Smithfield has borne witness to Dublin’s rich past. Once a thriving marketplace, it served as a hub for local farmers and merchants, their stalls overflowing with fresh produce, livestock, and household goods. The air was filled with the cacophony of bartering, the laughter of children, and the aroma of freshly baked bread.

As the centuries unfolded, Smithfield’s transformation continued. Grand Georgian buildings rose from the cobbles, housing merchants, tradesmen, and the occasional literary giant like James Joyce, who immortalized the neighborhood in his iconic works. The square transformed into a venue for lively events, from horse races and cattle fairs to political rallies and public gatherings.

Today, Smithfield stands as a vibrant hub of contemporary Dublin, a place where the past harmonises with the present. The old market square, now a pedestrian plaza, hosts farmers’ markets, craft fairs, and food festivals, while the historic architecture blends seamlessly with modern apartment blocks and trendy pubs.

The Cobblestone, a landmark pub dating back to the 17th century, remains a popular haunt for live traditional Irish music, while the Block T, a former meat market, has been transformed into a buzzing culinary haven with a diverse array of restaurants.

Smithfield’s authenticity lies in its ability to embrace its roots while embracing innovation. The neighbourhood has become a haven for creatives, entrepreneurs, and those seeking a taste of Dublin’s authentic character. Art galleries, vintage shops, and independent bookstores line the streets, offering a glimpse into the neighbourhood’s bohemian spirit.

As the sun sets over Smithfield, the square transforms into a lively stage for street performers, their music and laughter echoing through the cobblestone alleyways. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the tantalizing scent of traditional Irish fare mingle in the air, creating an irresistible sensory experience.

Smithfield is a neighbourhood that captures the essence of Dublin – a place where history and modernity intertwine, where tradition and innovation meet, and where the spirit of the city pulsates with life. It’s a place to explore, to discover, and to experience the true soul of Dublin.