PHOENIX PARK APRIL 2024
It was very wet when I visited the Phoenix Park April 10 2024 and after sheltering under some trees that provided little or no protection I decided to go home and then this appeared.
Original Images By A Real Street Photographer
by infomatique
by infomatique
6 APRIL 2024 WAS A VERY WINDY DAY
Battling the Wind at the Botanic Gardens
Storm Kathleen’s winds were whipping through Dublin today, and even the National Botanic Gardens weren’t immune. I’d ventured out with dreams of capturing the beauty of the spring blooms – flowering trees, bushes, and shrubs in all their glory. The Botanic Gardens are renowned for their Rhododendrons, and I was particularly eager to photograph these vibrant flowers.
It should be mentioned that there is an ongoing debate surrounding Rhododendrons, especially their invasive nature in areas like Killarney National Park. Putting that aside for the moment, my main obstacle became the weather itself. The wind was fierce, making the branches and flowers dance so wildly that photographing them clearly became an almost impossible feat. The persistent rain didn’t help matters either!
Despite the challenges I am reasonably happy with the resulting images.
by infomatique
NEAR TULLY CHURCH
Located near Tully Church in Laughanstown, County Dublin, this historical site features the ruins of the medieval Tully Church and two magnificent stone high crosses. Donated to Christ Church in Dublin shortly after the Anglo-Norman invasion by Sitric Mac Torcaill, the church remained in use until the early 17th century.
The original church structure likely dates back to the 9th century or earlier. The chancel, notable for being wider than the nave, was added in the late 12th or early 13th century and is separated from the nave by a fine arch.
Reputedly dedicated to St. Bridget, this site was an important diocesan centre in the 1st Millennium AD, earning the name Tulach na nEpscop (‘the Hill of the Bishops’) in early literature.
Two high crosses grace the site. One is a 10th-century granite ringed cross with a distinctive gabled roof, resting upon a massive stone pedestal. This cross was rescued in the 19th century by James Crehan, who saved it from being discarded during roadworks.
The second, a 12th-century granite high cross, stands in a nearby field to the northwest of the church. This 2.2-metre high cross features a carved figure of a bearded bishop on one side and strong raised mouldings outlining the cross with a faceless head at the intersection of the arms.
I
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
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