PHOTOGRAPHED 2022 PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2024
The Iveagh Gardens are often referred to as a "hidden gem" or "secret garden" for a few reasons:
Tucked Away Location: They are located behind the National Concert Hall, slightly off the beaten track for most tourists and even some Dubliners. Unlike the more prominent St. Stephen's Green, they aren't immediately visible from major thoroughfares.
Historical Obscurity: While always a beautiful space, the gardens went through periods of neglect and limited access in the 20th century, contributing to their lower profile.
Smaller Size: Compared to the vast expanse of St. Stephen's Green or Phoenix Park, the Iveagh Gardens are relatively compact. This adds to their intimate and secluded atmosphere.
The gardens were privately owned for much of their history. They were created in the 1860s by the Guinness family as part of their estate.
Public access was restricted during certain periods.
In 1995, the Iveagh Gardens were officially gifted to the Irish nation and opened fully to the public.
About the statues:
The statues you see, with their missing heads and limbs, were designed to appear aged and weathered. This is a deliberate stylistic choice, often seen in Romantic and Victorian gardens, to evoke a sense of history and antiquity. The statues are meant to look like ancient ruins discovered within the garden, adding to its romantic charm.
The Iveagh Gardens are a remarkable example of Victorian landscape design, blending formal and informal styles. They offer a tranquil oasis in the heart of Dublin, featuring:
Sunken Lawns: Formal, geometric panels of lawn with central fountains.
Rustic Grottoes: Artificial caves and waterfalls creating a sense of wilderness.
Maze: A traditional yew maze for a playful challenge.
Rosarium: A beautiful rose garden with pre-1860s varieties.
American Garden: Showcasing plants native to North America.
Archery Grounds: A reminder of the gardens' historical use.
Tucked Away Location: They are located behind the National Concert Hall, slightly off the beaten track for most tourists and even some Dubliners. Unlike the more prominent St. Stephen's Green, they aren't immediately visible from major thoroughfares.
Historical Obscurity: While always a beautiful space, the gardens went through periods of neglect and limited access in the 20th century, contributing to their lower profile.
Smaller Size: Compared to the vast expanse of St. Stephen's Green or Phoenix Park, the Iveagh Gardens are relatively compact. This adds to their intimate and secluded atmosphere.
The gardens were privately owned for much of their history. They were created in the 1860s by the Guinness family as part of their estate.
Public access was restricted during certain periods.
In 1995, the Iveagh Gardens were officially gifted to the Irish nation and opened fully to the public.
About the statues:
The statues you see, with their missing heads and limbs, were designed to appear aged and weathered. This is a deliberate stylistic choice, often seen in Romantic and Victorian gardens, to evoke a sense of history and antiquity. The statues are meant to look like ancient ruins discovered within the garden, adding to its romantic charm.
The Iveagh Gardens are a remarkable example of Victorian landscape design, blending formal and informal styles. They offer a tranquil oasis in the heart of Dublin, featuring:
Sunken Lawns: Formal, geometric panels of lawn with central fountains.
Rustic Grottoes: Artificial caves and waterfalls creating a sense of wilderness.
Maze: A traditional yew maze for a playful challenge.
Rosarium: A beautiful rose garden with pre-1860s varieties.
American Garden: Showcasing plants native to North America.
Archery Grounds: A reminder of the gardens' historical use.
PHOTOGRAPHED 2022 PUBLISHED NOVEMBER 2024