FX30

ST PATRICK’S HOLIDAY 2024

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Years ago I overheard a tourist guide who when asked why was the area named “Stephen’s Green” explain that it was named after the famous Steven Green who died during the Easter Rising. I was very young at the time and I went to school nearby. The next day when I asked my History Teacher about Steven Green it took him a very long time to stop laughing.

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This series features photographs of the North and East sides of the square and does not include the public park.

The streets surrounding St. Stephen’s Green offer a glimpse into Dublin’s elegant Georgian past and its heritage. Each side of the park boasts its own unique character.

St. Stephen’s Green North: Grand Georgian townhouses line this street, interspersed with offices. Look for intricate ironwork and brightly-coloured doors adding a touch of vibrancy. The Wolfe Tone statue stands proudly on the northeast corner, and the iconic Shelbourne Hotel, a landmark of Dublin luxury since 1824, is a prominent feature.

St. Stephen’s Green South: Explore a mix of grand houses and more modern establishments. On this south side, you’ll find the Roman Catholic Newman University Church, located near the Department of Foreign Affairs. Government buildings also lend an air of authority to this area.

St. Stephen’s Green East: This side features Dublin Unitarian Church, adding to the architectural diversity of the area. St. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre adds a modern contrast with its bustling stores.

St. Stephen’s Green West: Find grand, historic buildings interspersed with a few newer establishments.

The Lady Grattan Memorial Fountain

Located on the north side of Dublin’s St. Stephen’s Green, the Lady Grattan Memorial Fountain stands as an eye-catching reminder of the city’s Victorian past.

Description: This ornate fountain is crafted from polished red marble with a quatrefoil (four-lobed) plan. Bronze water spouts protrude near the base of its intricately designed shaft. Atop the sculpted section sits a Greek cross.

History: The fountain was presented to the citizens of Dublin by Lady Laura Grattan in 1880. Lady Grattan was the daughter-in-law of Henry Grattan, a prominent Irish statesman who championed Irish legislative independence. Its original purpose was to provide drinking water to both people and horses using the surrounding streets.

Modern Day: While the drinking water feature is no longer operational, the Lady Grattan Fountain remains a striking architectural element within the park. In 2014, it underwent restoration and was returned closer to its original location.

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