CHURCH AVENUE
The Haven and Church Avenue
The Haven and Church Avenue are joined by a short lane, which I took as I walked from St Mobhi Road to Ballymun Road. I had hoped to visit St Mobhi's Church from Church Avenue, but the gates were locked. I later discovered that the gates are usually locked and only open for Sunday morning services.
St Mobhi's Church
St Mobhi's is a modest Church of Ireland church nestled within an enclosed graveyard off Ballymun Road. Built in phases to serve the growing Protestant community, it stands on the site of an early medieval church. The nave was constructed in 1707, adjoining a pre-existing tower. In the nineteenth century, the south aisle and chancel were added under the supervision of the Ecclesiastical Commissioners.
The building's architecture reflects its historical development, with evidence of gradual additions over time. It holds social significance as a place of worship for the local Church of Ireland community and as a burial ground for both Catholics and Protestants.
The surrounding churchyard, steeped in history, further enhances the site. Its boundary features and gates create a sense of tranquillity, reminiscent of the area's past as a rural village, now a densely developed part of Dublin. The church is dedicated to St. Mobhi, who founded a monastery in the sixth century that formed the nucleus of the early settlement of Glasnevin.
The Former Model School on Church Avenue
The former model school on Church Avenue was put up for auction on 6th November 2018. Described as a 'magnificent opportunity for redevelopment' in a 'prime residential and commercial location', the building was owned by the Office of Public Works (OPW) at the time, and it appears to remain in their ownership.
Originally opened in 1847, the school served generations of Glasnevin residents. It was one of the first schools established after Catholic Emancipation, as part of the 'model system' that later floundered.
The building continued to operate as a national school under various names, including Sacred Heart National School. Most recently, it housed the Glasnevin Educate Together National School until January 2017, when they relocated to a purpose-built school on Griffith Avenue. The entire site encompasses over 16 hectares, bordered by Bon Secours Hospital and adjacent to Met Éireann HQ.
Additional Information:
St Mobhi's Church: Historical records indicate that the tower may actually date back to the 14th century and was restored in the 17th century. The churchyard is the final resting place of several notable figures, including members of the Guinness family.
Former Model School: The model system aimed to provide non-denominational education, but it faced opposition from both Catholic and Protestant churches and ultimately failed. The building's prolonged vacancy and potential redevelopment highlight the challenges of balancing preservation with contemporary needs in a changing urban landscape.
CLAREMONT AVENUE GLASNEVIN
Claremont Avenue, Glasnevin
Claremont Avenue is located off Ballymun Road in Glasnevin. This quiet residential street is home to a mix of housing styles, including period and more modern properties. It's conveniently situated near local amenities, shops, and transport links, making it a desirable location within this vibrant Dublin suburb.
Talent Garden Dublin
Talent Garden Dublin is a modern coworking space situated on Claremont Avenue. It's a hub for creative and tech professionals, offering a dynamic and collaborative environment. Spanning three floors, it accommodates 350 members and provides flexible workspaces, digital skills training through its Innovation School, and a busy calendar of events.
Additional Information:
Establishment and Previous Occupant: Talent Garden Dublin opened its doors in late 2018, replacing the Claremont Private Hospital. The hospital, which had been in operation for many years, closed down, and the building underwent extensive renovations to transform it into the contemporary coworking space it is today.
Claremont Avenue: The avenue is named after Claremont House, a substantial period property that once stood on the street. Although the original house is no longer there, its name lives on in the avenue. The area has a rich history, with connections to the nearby Botanic Gardens and the wider Glasnevin community.
DEAN SWIFT BRIDGE
ENTRANCE TO GRIFFITH PARK AT DEAN SWIFT BRIDGE [ST MOBHI ROAD IN GLASNEVIN]
The Dean Swift Bridge, an elegant structure of concrete and iron, graces the St. Mobhi Road in Glasnevin. Built in the early 20th century, it likely coincided with the suburban development of Glasnevin and Drumcondra. Interestingly, St. Mobhi Road was originally named Dean Swift Avenue, a fact I was unaware of until I first photographed this charming bridge.
The bridge exemplifies inter-war classicism, with its geometric lines and ornate iron lamp standards at each end. It's a testament to the engineering prowess of the time, showcasing the innovative use of cast concrete to create a single span over the Tolka River. The bridge remains largely intact, serving as an attractive landmark and a reminder of the area's historical development.
The bridge's name honours Jonathan Swift, Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral from 1713 to 1745. Swift had connections to Delville House, a now-demolished building located northwest of the bridge.
Beyond its historical significance, the Dean Swift Bridge also marks several important entry points: it provides access to Griffith Park, Whitehall College of Further Education, and Gaelscoil Aine.
According to the current plans for MetroLink, there will be a station located at Griffith Park. It's planned to be constructed on the Home Farm football grounds in front of Whitehall College of Further Education, which as we've already discussed, is accessible from the Dean Swift Bridge.
This station will be one of 16 stations along the MetroLink route, running from Estuary in North Dublin to Charlemont in the south. It's expected to be a significant station on the line, providing a transport hub for the surrounding residential areas, as well as for those accessing the park, the college, and nearby schools.
However, it's worth noting that these plans are still subject to change as the project progresses through the planning and development phases.
Here are some of the key concerns raised by locals and other interested parties about the Griffith Park station location:
Loss of Green Space: The station is planned for the Home Farm lands, a green area used for sports and recreation. Residents are concerned about the loss of this valuable amenity and the impact on the character of the park.
Traffic Disruption: Construction will inevitably cause disruption to traffic in the area, particularly on St. Mobhi Road, which is already a busy route. There are worries about increased congestion and potential rat-runs through residential streets.
Impact on Housing: Some residents have expressed concerns about the potential impact of tunnelling and construction on nearby homes, especially older properties. There are worries about noise, vibration, and potential structural damage.
Visual Impact: The station entrance and associated infrastructure will alter the visual landscape of the park. Some argue that it will detract from the natural beauty of the area.
Environmental Concerns: There are concerns about the environmental impact of the construction process, including noise pollution, dust, and potential disruption to wildlife habitats in the park.
It's important to note that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) is aware of these concerns and has been engaging with the local community to address them. They have committed to mitigating the impact of the project as much as possible and have made some design changes in response to feedback. However, some residents remain unconvinced and continue to voice their opposition to the chosen location.
The MetroLink project is currently undergoing planning scrutiny, and these objections will be considered as part of that process. It remains to be seen how these issues will be resolved and whether the final design will address all the concerns raised.
RIVER TOLKA
The River Tolka is a vital waterway that meanders through Dublin, shaping the landscape and providing a haven for wildlife. Alongside the river, a series of linear parks offer green spaces for recreation and enhance the biodiversity of the area. These parks, with their interconnected pathways, follow the natural course of the river, creating a unique corridor for both people and wildlife to traverse.
One notable example is the Tolka Valley Park, which stretches for 8km from Mulhuddart to Ashtown. This expansive park encompasses a variety of habitats, from woodlands and wetlands to grasslands and playing fields. The park provides opportunities for leisurely walks, cycling, and observing the diverse birdlife that thrives along the riverbanks.
Further downstream, the river flows through Cardiffsbridge Park, where integrated constructed wetlands have been implemented to improve water quality and create a thriving ecosystem. This park features a network of footpaths, cycleways, and footbridges, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.
These linear parks, alongside the Tolka River, offer a valuable escape from the urban environment, promoting health, wellbeing, and a connection with nature. They provide a vital space for recreation, conservation, and community engagement, contributing significantly to the quality of life in Dublin.
GRIFFITH AVENUE
Griffith Avenue
Griffith Avenue, located in Dublin, is renowned for its historical and architectural significance. Designed as a 100-foot wide road, it links Glasnevin (St. Mobhi Road) with Clontarf. One of its unique features is the double row of trees on either side, comprising over 820 trees of ten different varieties. This makes it the longest urban street in the Northern Hemisphere without any commercial premises.
Historical Significance
Naming: Griffith Avenue is named after Arthur Griffith (1871-1922), a prominent Irish writer, newspaper editor, and founder of Sinn Féin. He played a crucial role in the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations and served as President of Dáil Éireann in 1922.
Construction: The foundation stone for the houses on Griffith Avenue was laid by Richard Mulcahy, TD, Minister for Local Government and Public Health, on November 26, 1926.
Cultural Sites: The avenue is surrounded by notable sites such as the Marino garden suburb, the O’Brien Institute, High Park Convent, the eighteenth-century Casino at Marino, All Hallows Campus, and Drumcondra Castle.
Modern-Day Relevance
Griffith Avenue remains a cherished local amenity, known for its scenic beauty and historical importance. It is a popular spot for long walks, especially in autumn when the fallen leaves create a picturesque scene.
Keywords
The new N2 Dublin Bus Route, operated by Go-Ahead Ireland, is part of the BusConnects Network Redesign and launched on September 29, 2024. This orbital route connects various key locations across Dublin, providing new connections and interchange opportunities with other TFI bus, rail, and tram services.
Route Details
The N2 route starts at Heuston Station and ends at Clontarf Road Station, covering the following stops:
Heuston Station
Blackhorse Avenue
Nephin Road
Broombridge
Ballyboggan Road
Old Finglas Road
Griffith Avenue
Marino
Clontarf Road Station
Frequency: Weekday Peak Hours: Every 15-20 minutes
Weekends: Every 30 minutes
This frequency ensures that passengers have regular and reliable service throughout the week, making it easier to plan their journeys.
THE RISE OFF GRIFFITH AVENUE
My second time to visit this street off Griffith Avenue and not much has changed.
While The Rise might be described as a "quiet cul-de-sac" in some property listings, my earlier suspicions that it functions as a rat-run seem well-founded. It appears to offer a tempting shortcut between Griffith Avenue and Ballymun Road for those seeking to avoid the busier thoroughfares. However navigating this narrow, winding street, particularly with parked cars lining the kerbs, presents a challenge and a potential hazard for both drivers and pedestrians, especially with children playing.
It's a classic urban conundrum: the desire for convenient access versus the need for safety and tranquillity in a residential area. Perhaps this explains the 30km/h speed limit, a measure aimed at mitigating the risks associated with this "shortcut" temptation.
ST MOBHI ROAD
I had not intended to explore Mobhi Road today but as the number 9 bus was stuck in traffic I decided to get of the bus and explore the immediate area and Griffith Avenue which is nice to visit at this time of the year.
St. Mobhi was a 6th-century Irish bishop and abbot. He founded a monastery in Glasnevin, which is now the site of Mobhi Park. St. Mobhi is also known for his work as a scholar and poet.
The No. 9 bus service in Dublin operates between Charlestown and Limekiln Avenue, providing a convenient route through the city. Here are some of the major stops along the route:
Charlestown Shopping Centre
Beneavin Road
Botanic Road
O’Connell Street
South Circular Road
Limekiln Avenue
The bus runs every 20 minutes, making it a reliable option for daily commutes. The service starts at 06:20 and runs until 23:20 on weekdays.
ST MOBHI DRIVE
When the Irish State was founded in 1922, there was a clamour to repudiate naming new roads after absent British landlords or heroes of the Empire, as had been the norm, and instead look for names with a more locally rooted and native ethos. And so it was in the 1920s that the new red-brick homes being built around here began to carry names associated with the ancient monastery. There’s Iona Road, for example, but St Mobhi had a few named after him, and one of these is St Mobhi Drive.
History of Mobhi Park and St Mobhi
Mobhi Park is part of the larger Griffith Park, which spans 7.5 hectares along the River Tolka between Glasnevin and Drumcondra. Originally a landfill site, Griffith Park was developed in stages from the 1930s to the 1950s. The section near Mobhi Road was completed in the mid-1950s. Today, Griffith Park is known for its fine trees, flower gardens, riverside walks, playground, and outdoor gym.
Mobhi Park is a 16-acre park located in Glasnevin, Dublin 9. It was named after St. Mobhi, who founded a monastery in the area in the 6th century. The park is home to a variety of trees, flowers, and shrubs, as well as a number of benches and picnic tables [I did not notice any]. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and picnicking.
St. Mobhi: St. Mobhi was a 6th-century Irish bishop and abbot. He founded a monastery in Glasnevin, which is now the site of Mobhi Park. St. Mobhi is also known for his work as a scholar and poet.
History of Mobhi Park: The park was originally part of the grounds of St. Mobhi's monastery. In the 19th century, the monastery was demolished, and the land was sold to the Dublin Corporation. The park was officially opened in 1929.
Features of Mobhi Park: The park features a number of interesting features, including:
The Tolka River: The Tolka River flows through the park, providing a beautiful natural setting.
St. Mobhi's Well: This well is said to have been used by St. Mobhi to baptise his followers.
The Battle of Glasnevin: The Battle of Glasnevin, which was fought between the Vikings and the Irish in 1014, took place near the park.
The Bloody Acre: This area of the park is said to be the site of the most intense fighting in the Battle of Glasnevin.
Connection to a larger park system: Mobhi Park is part of the Tolka Valley Park, a network of parks and green spaces that stretches along the River Tolka.
The Battle of Glasnevin might not have the same ring to it as the Battle of Clontarf, but some of the most intense fighting took place in the Dublin 9 location around what is currently still called the ‘Bloody Acre’ in Glasnevin. Brian Boru began his advance across the Tolka from Glasnevin, and it is thought that the great king may have even died on the Dublin 9 side of the river.
Glasnevin has plenty of history, as testified to by the wonderful cemetery which offers a “who’s who” of Irish history walk and has become a renowned tourist attraction. But the first proper settlement here was organised by Saint Mobhi in the sixth century when he set up a monastery at Glasnevin before his death in 544. The monastery is reputed to have been attended by St Colman and St Columba of Iona.
WHAT IS LIFE SCULPTURE
What is Life? by Charles Jencks at the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland
A Sculptural Exploration of the Cell and the Cosmos
Nestled within the serene landscape of the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin, Ireland, lies a thought-provoking sculpture entitled "What is Life?" by renowned architect and landscape designer Charles Jencks. Created in 2013, this intriguing artwork delves into the intricate connections between the microscopic world of the cell and the vast expanse of the cosmos.
Form and Symbolism
The sculpture takes the form of a large, swirling mound, reminiscent of a cell undergoing division. Constructed from earth and covered in lush green grass, it blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings while simultaneously standing out as a striking artistic statement. Embedded within the mound are a series of pathways and steps, inviting visitors to embark on a journey of discovery.
As visitors traverse the sculpture, they encounter a series of symbolic elements that draw parallels between cellular processes and cosmic events. Stone carvings depict DNA strands, chromosomes, and other cellular components, while strategically placed rocks represent planets and stars. This juxtaposition encourages contemplation on the fundamental building blocks of life and the vastness of the universe.
A Dialogue Between Science and Art
"What is Life?" is not merely a static sculpture; it is an interactive experience that encourages visitors to engage with scientific concepts through the lens of art. Jencks, known for his work in landscape architecture and his interest in cosmology, seamlessly blends these disciplines in this piece. The sculpture serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things, from the smallest cell to the largest galaxy.
SHEPHERD'S WARNING
This is located near the Met Éireann building.
This is a fantastic piece of street art and the title "Shepherd's Warning" is incredibly apt given its proximity to Met Éireann.
Here's why it works so well:
The proverb: "Shepherd's Warning" plays on the old weather proverb "Red sky at night, shepherd's delight; red sky in the morning, shepherd's warning." This saying suggests that a red sky at sunset often indicates good weather the following day, while a red sky at sunrise can be a sign of impending storms or bad weather.
Met Éireann's role: Met Éireann's primary function is to forecast the weather, essentially providing "shepherd's warnings" (or delights!) to the entire nation. They alert people to potential weather hazards, allowing them to prepare and stay safe.
Visual connection: The artwork itself features an image of the Met Éireann building, further strengthening the link between the title and the organisation's purpose. It's a clever way to connect the art to its location and the service provided there.
Artistic interpretation: By using the phrase "Shepherd's Warning", the artists, Anna and Isobel Mahon, may also be subtly commenting on the increasing importance of heeding weather warnings in the face of climate change. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, and paying attention to forecasts and warnings is crucial for public safety.
The "paint-a-box" project, which sees many traffic signal boxes transformed into vibrant works of art, adds another layer of meaning. It's about bringing colour and creativity to unexpected places, much like Met Éireann brings vital information to the public, often in ways that are engaging and accessible.
Met Éireann is Ireland's national meteorological service. It's a division of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and is responsible for providing weather information and related services for the country.
Here are some key things to know about Met Éireann:
What they do: They provide a wide range of services, including:
Weather forecasts: Regularly updated forecasts for the general public, specific sectors (like farming and aviation), and marine areas. You can find these forecasts on their website, app, social media, and through various media outlets.
Weather warnings: Issuing warnings for severe weather events like heavy rain, strong winds, snow, and ice. These warnings help people to prepare and stay safe during potentially dangerous weather.
Climate monitoring: Monitoring and recording weather data to understand long-term climate trends in Ireland. This information is crucial for research, planning, and policy-making related to climate change.
Research and development: Conducting research to improve forecasting accuracy and develop new meteorological services.
How they do it: Met Éireann uses a variety of tools and technologies to monitor and forecast weather, including:
Weather stations: A network of stations across Ireland that collect data on temperature, rainfall, wind speed, and other variables.
Radar: Radar systems that track precipitation and provide information on its intensity and movement.
Weather balloons: Launched regularly to gather data on atmospheric conditions at different altitudes.
Satellite imagery: Images from satellites that provide a view of weather patterns from space.
Computer models: Sophisticated computer models that use all the available data to predict future weather conditions.
Current weather situation: Met Éireann has issued warnings for heavy rainfall in parts of Ireland this weekend, particularly in southern counties. They are also monitoring the potential impact of Hurricane Kirk, which may bring more wind and rain next week.
Here's some information about the unique building of Met Éireann in Dublin:
It was designed by celebrated Irish architect Liam McCormick, most renowned for his church architecture. The building was completed in 1979 and is a four-story office building.
Its truncated-pyramid shape is notable. This shape was chosen to allow staff to get better views of the sky and to limit overshadowing of the houses behind.
The building's facade is made of metal sheets. This was a replacement for the original limestone facade, which was found to be unsuitable for the Irish climate. The metal facade gives the building a futuristic look.
The building is a popular tourist attraction. It is included in the Open House Dublin tour and is often visited by school groups and other visitors.
It is home to the Met Éireann headquarters and a number of other offices. These offices include the Met Éireann library, the Met Éireann archives, and the Met Éireann canteen.
Here are some additional details about the building:
The building is located at 65-67 Glasnevin Hill, Dublin 9.
It is open to the public on weekdays from 9:15 AM to 5:30 PM.
Tours of the building are available for groups of 10 or more people.
O'CONNELL ROUND TOWER
The O'Connell Tower is a striking landmark situated in Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin. Standing at an impressive 55 metres (180 feet), it is one of the tallest round towers in Ireland and a testament to Daniel O'Connell, a prominent figure in Irish history.
A Monument to "The Liberator"
The tower was erected to honour Daniel O'Connell, often referred to as "The Liberator" for his tireless advocacy for Catholic Emancipation in the 19th century. He was a key figure in Irish politics, campaigning for religious freedom and equality. O'Connell's remains are interred in a crypt beneath the tower, adding to its significance as a place of remembrance and historical importance.
Architectural Grandeur
Designed by the renowned Dublin architect Patrick Byrne, the O'Connell Tower is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture. Its imposing structure, with its intricate details and ornate carvings, is a sight to behold. The tower's construction, completed in 1869, was a significant undertaking, involving hundreds of skilled craftsmen and labourers.
A Turbulent Past
The O'Connell Tower has witnessed its share of turbulent times. In 1971, a bomb explosion caused significant damage to the tower's interior, rendering it inaccessible for decades. However, following extensive restoration work completed in 2018, the tower was reopened to the public, allowing visitors to once again appreciate its grandeur and learn about its fascinating history.
Climbing the Tower
Today, visitors can climb the 198 steps to the top of the O'Connell Tower, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of Dublin city, the Wicklow Mountains, and the Irish Sea. The climb is enhanced by informative panels detailing the life and achievements of Daniel O'Connell and the history of the tower itself.
Key Features
The Crypt: The ornate crypt beneath the tower houses the remains of Daniel O'Connell and some of his family members.
The Exhibition: An exhibition within the tower delves into the life of Daniel O'Connell and the history of the tower, providing valuable insights into its significance.
The Staircase: The meticulously restored staircase, based on the original 19th-century plans, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era.
The Panoramic Views: From the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making the climb a truly rewarding experience.
The O'Connell Tower stands as a symbol of Irish resilience and a tribute to one of its most influential leaders. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Irish history and architecture.
BALNAGOWAN HOUSE
Balnagowan House: A Modernist Gem in Decay
The recent fire at The Haven, which tragically destroyed outbuildings on the grounds of Balnagowan House, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of this architectural gem. Located off Mobhi Road in Glasnevin, Balnagowan House stands as a testament to Ireland's early embrace of Modernist architecture.
Wendon House, later renamed Balnagowan, was a marvel of modern luxury hidden behind an unassuming exterior. While the street presence was understated, the interior was a testament to cutting-edge design and comfort.
Architect Harold Greenwood, under the direction of developer George Linzell, incorporated features that were ahead of their time:
Modern Conveniences: Central heating, concealed lighting, and an internal telephone system for seamless communication with staff.
Luxurious Amenities: Bedrooms with private hand basins and built-in wardrobes, two bathrooms, and a serving hatch between the kitchen and dining room with electric hotplates to keep food warm.
State-of-the-art Appliances: A laundry room equipped with a washing machine, connected to the upper floors by a laundry chute.
Modernist Design Elements: Oak panelling and chrome light-switches added a touch of sleek sophistication.
Linzell, who built speculative houses in Dublin, leveraged his own residence as a showpiece of modern luxury living, attracting discerning buyers. Later occupants further enhanced the property with additions like a tennis court, swimming pool, greenhouses, and outbuildings, while strategically planted trees provided privacy from the neighbouring Bons Secours Hospital.
The house changed hands several times over the years, with notable residents including publican John Doyle, who renamed it Balnagowan, and the Quinns, the last family to reside there. Before its current vacancy, it served as the headquarters for the Central Fisheries Board.
The recent fire at The Haven, which tragically destroyed outbuildings on the grounds of Balnagowan House, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of this architectural gem. Located off Mobhi Road in Glasnevin, Balnagowan House stands as a testament to Ireland's early embrace of Modernist architecture.
Wendon House, later renamed Balnagowan, was a marvel of modern luxury hidden behind an unassuming exterior. While the street presence was understated, the interior was a testament to cutting-edge design and comfort.
Architect Harold Greenwood, under the direction of developer George Linzell, incorporated features that were ahead of their time:
Modern Conveniences: Central heating, concealed lighting, and an internal telephone system for seamless communication with staff.
Luxurious Amenities: Bedrooms with private hand basins and built-in wardrobes, two bathrooms, and a serving hatch between the kitchen and dining room with electric hotplates to keep food warm.
State-of-the-art Appliances: A laundry room equipped with a washing machine, connected to the upper floors by a laundry chute.
Modernist Design Elements: Oak panelling and chrome light-switches added a touch of sleek sophistication.
Linzell, who built speculative houses in Dublin, leveraged his own residence as a showpiece of modern luxury living, attracting discerning buyers. Later occupants further enhanced the property with additions like a tennis court, swimming pool, greenhouses, and outbuildings, while strategically planted trees provided privacy from the neighbouring Bons Secours Hospital.
The house changed hands several times over the years, with notable residents including publican John Doyle, who renamed it Balnagowan, and the Quinns, the last family to reside there. Before its current vacancy, it served as the headquarters for the Central Fisheries Board.
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