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GLASNEVIN CEMETERY IN APRIL 2024

Glasnevin Cemetery: Ireland's National Necropolis

Glasnevin Cemetery: Ireland's National Necropolis

Glasnevin Cemetery, located in Dublin, Ireland, stands as a testament to the nation's rich and often tumultuous history. Established in 1832 by the famed Irish Liberator Daniel O'Connell, Glasnevin offered a place for Catholic burials at a time when most Irish cemeteries were under the dominion of the Protestant Church of Ireland. This groundbreaking act alone marked Glasnevin as a place of national significance.

Notable Burials

Throughout its nearly two centuries, Glasnevin's 124 acres became the final resting place for a breathtaking array of figures who shaped Ireland:

  • Political Titans: Daniel O'Connell himself lies beneath his iconic round tower, joined by revolutionary leaders like Michael Collins, Éamon de Valera, Charles Stewart Parnell, and Countess Markievicz.
  • Literary Giants: Authors Brendan Behan and Christy Brown, poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, and even the inspiration for Dracula, Bram Stoker, found their eternal rest here.
  • Ordinary Heroes: Alongside these famed names are over 1.5 million ordinary citizens. Their stories of resilience, heartache, and everyday life weave a poignant tapestry of Ireland's social history.

A Walk Through History

A visit to Glasnevin Cemetery is to embark on a journey through time. The cemetery's grand Victorian architecture, with its towering Celtic crosses and elaborate mausoleums, reflects a bygone era. Two of their most popular tours:

  • The General History Tour: Delves into the cemetery's establishment and the figures that shaped Irish history.
  • The Dead Interesting Tour: Offers a mix of historical and quirky stories about the cemetery's residents.

Glasnevin Museum

The Glasnevin Museum is a must-see for those wanting to dive into the cemetery's legacy. Its award-winning exhibitions bring the past to life:

  • City of the Dead: Explores the history and social impact of Glasnevin.
  • Prospect Gallery: Features temporary exhibitions showcasing various aspects of Irish history and culture.

Visiting Information