ABOUT THE STATUE AND WHY IT WAS RELOCATED
The Molly Malone statue, a bronze sculpture depicting a buxom fishmonger pushing a wheelbarrow, is one of Dublin's most iconic landmarks. Unveiled in 1988 as part of the city's millennium celebrations, it quickly became a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city's maritime heritage.
However, the statue's history is not without controversy. It was originally located at the bottom of Grafton Street, a really busy shopping thoroughfare. In 2014, it was relocated to Suffolk Street to facilitate the construction of the Luas Cross City tram line.
The relocation sparked debate and criticism from some who argued that the statue should be returned to its original location once construction was completed. However, the Dublin City Council decided against this, citing concerns about pedestrian congestion and the statue's vulnerability to damage in its previous position.
Despite the relocation, the Molly Malone statue remains immensely popular, much more popular. Tourists flock to take photos with the figure, rubbing her ample bosom for good luck, a tradition that has worn the bronze to a shine. The statue's appeal lies not only in its aesthetic charm but also in the folklore surrounding Molly Malone.
The Fiction of Molly Malone
The Molly Malone we know today is largely a fictional creation. There is no historical evidence to confirm the existence of a real Molly Malone who lived and worked in Dublin in the 17th century, as the popular ballad suggests.
The song "Molly Malone," also known as "Cockles and Mussels," was written in the late 19th century and romanticises the life of a fishmonger who died young of a fever. The song's catchy melody and evocative lyrics captured the imagination of Dubliners and visitors alike, contributing to the mythologization of Molly Malone.
The statue, with its idealised depiction of a beautiful young woman, further solidifies this romanticised image. However, the lack of historical accuracy does little to diminish the statue's cultural significance. It has become a symbol of Dublin, representing the city's vibrant spirit, maritime history, and enduring folklore.
However, the statue's history is not without controversy. It was originally located at the bottom of Grafton Street, a really busy shopping thoroughfare. In 2014, it was relocated to Suffolk Street to facilitate the construction of the Luas Cross City tram line.
The relocation sparked debate and criticism from some who argued that the statue should be returned to its original location once construction was completed. However, the Dublin City Council decided against this, citing concerns about pedestrian congestion and the statue's vulnerability to damage in its previous position.
Despite the relocation, the Molly Malone statue remains immensely popular, much more popular. Tourists flock to take photos with the figure, rubbing her ample bosom for good luck, a tradition that has worn the bronze to a shine. The statue's appeal lies not only in its aesthetic charm but also in the folklore surrounding Molly Malone.
The Fiction of Molly Malone
The Molly Malone we know today is largely a fictional creation. There is no historical evidence to confirm the existence of a real Molly Malone who lived and worked in Dublin in the 17th century, as the popular ballad suggests.
The song "Molly Malone," also known as "Cockles and Mussels," was written in the late 19th century and romanticises the life of a fishmonger who died young of a fever. The song's catchy melody and evocative lyrics captured the imagination of Dubliners and visitors alike, contributing to the mythologization of Molly Malone.
The statue, with its idealised depiction of a beautiful young woman, further solidifies this romanticised image. However, the lack of historical accuracy does little to diminish the statue's cultural significance. It has become a symbol of Dublin, representing the city's vibrant spirit, maritime history, and enduring folklore.
ABOUT THE STATUE AND WHY IT WAS RELOCATED