150 Metres Of Memory On Dock Road

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 15th August

Mariana Duarte Santos transforms 150 metres of Dock Road in Ferrybank with a 29-scene archival mural celebrating Waterford's port and railway history

2009 Gas Explosion In Blackrock

Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 21st February

Emergency services described it as a 'miracle' that no one was killed when a mid-terrace house at St. Anne’s Square, Blackrock, was reduced to rubble on Friday, March 13th, 2009. The blast, occurring at 2:30 PM, leveled the property and severely damaged neighboring homes. Subsequent investigations by Bord Gáis confirmed a natural gas build-up as the cause, though the property was unoccupied at the time of ignition. The event led to the permanent demolition and eventual reconstruction of several units in the historic square.

2016 Visit To The College Graveyard In Maynooth

The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 27th May

Discover the haunting history of Maynooth's hidden College Cemetery. From the tragic nineteenth-century reality behind the infamous Rhetoric House 'Ghost Room' to the final resting places of historical pioneers, explore the rich lore, architectural secrets, and fact-checked truths of Ireland's legendary seminary grounds.

2025 New Year Day Visit To Sandycove

Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 31st December

Sandycove Avenue forms three sides of a rectangle, bounded on the south by Sandycove Terrace (part of Sandycove Road). Originally, Sandycove Avenue East was a cul-de-sac leading to the Martello Tower (Joyce's Tower, Sandycove), as shown on maps from 1820. By 1860, only two houses stood on Sandycove Avenue East. Ten years later, significant building had occurred, including three houses designated Ellerslie Terrace, alongside detached and terraced houses. The 1901 census recorded 27 houses, five of which were vacant, with 98 occupants. Five houses were classified as first class. In 1884, the first meeting of the Dublin Bay Sailing Club took place at Number 7 Sandycove Avenue East, the home of Major Edward White. St Kilda's, a villa-style house on the east side, was owned by Francis Falkner, a grocer with shops in Grafton Street and London.

A Bugs Bunny Mural By ADRE

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 17th August

Explore the vibrant Bugs Bunny and tugboat mural by Irish street artists ADRE and Sonny at Glasshouse Lane, Waterford. A playful, cartoon-inspired graffiti jam blending pop-art geometry with classic animation subversion.

A Coastal Dialogue In Stone And Bronze

The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 20th May

Discover the fascinating multi-generational artistic dialogue on the Dublin coast between sculptors Dick and Rachel Joynt. This original article explores how 'Celebration' in Glasthule and 'Mothership' on the Dún Laoghaire promenade contrast ancient stone carving with interactive, environmental bronze casting.

A Collection of Unusual Images from a Sony FX30: Reassessing an Eerie December Light

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 7th September

Can modern RAW processing salvage images once written off as unusable. Revisiting forgotten 2022 files shot into an eerie winter twilight using the Sony FX30 and FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS lens, reprocessed today using updated Lightroom algorithms on a classic 27-inch 5K iMac setup.

A Day In The Life Of The Urban Cartographer 2 June 2026

The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 3rd June

A rainy June Bank Holiday in Dublin forces a shift in plans for *The Urban Cartographer*. Exploring the city's changing architecture and extreme weather patterns with the new high-resolution Sony A7RVI.

A Diary Update and Random Images of Dublin City Centre

The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 6th October

A chaotic Sunday transit delay across Dublin turns into a firmware test for the Leica Q3. Plus, a look at why Dublin street photography is shifting focus ahead of Ireland's upcoming 2026 EU Council Presidency and the massive European Political Community Summit.

A Guide To Vivien Burnside’s Dividers

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 14th July

Discover "Dividers", the monumental 8.3m bronze sculpture by artist Vivien Burnside at Belfast's historic Clarendon Dock. Explore the art, the artist's history, and how this striking maritime monument connects Belfast's industrial heritage with its modern waterfront.

A Leica Q3 Was Used To Photograph Waterford City At Random

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 25th September

Explore Waterford through the lens of a Leica Q3. A photographic journey capturing the city's vibrant murals framed within its historic built environment and urban streetscapes.

A Lost Fragment of Desmond Kinney’s Sweeney Astray

Urban Cartographer on Friday, 2nd January

Investigating the mystery of Desmond Kinney's "Sweeney Astray" mosaic. Although reported destroyed in 2013, photographic evidence from 2019 suggests a fragment of the famous "Bird Woman" survived hidden in the Irish Life Centre.

A Lovely Day Sculpture September 2016

The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 5th March

Discover the work of Irish artist Marty Meinardi, whose sculpture "A Lovely Day" was a highlight of the 2016 Sculpture in Context exhibition at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin. Explore the intersection of academic research and fine art in Meinardi’s multidisciplinary career.

A Mixed Reception for Limerick's Tribute to Sir Terry Wogan

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 30th August

Terry Wogan’s Fame in Ireland vs the UK - Sir Terry Wogan was universally recognised across the Republic of Ireland due to his early RTÉ broadcasting career and the widespread availability of BBC radio and television in Irish households. However, his cultural status differed markedly between the two countries. In Britain, he was a peerless daily institution—the warmth and wit of the BBC Radio 2 breakfast show, host of Blankety Blank and the Wogan chat show, and the long-time voice of Children in Need and the Eurovision Song Contest.

A Mural By Arches On Dock Road In Waterford

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 28th August

ACHES is a Dublin-born street artist, muralist, and graphic designer who began writing graffiti as a teenager before studying Visual Communications at the National College of Art and Design (NCAD). His signature aesthetic bridges traditional graffiti hand-lettering, portraiture, and digital display technology.

A Mural By Iñigo Sesma Was Replaced By A Mural By CONSE A Year Later

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 18th August

A photographic retrospective on the short-lived 2025 Waterford Walls gable mural by Spanish artist Iñigo Sesma, its unexpected replacement in 2026 by Conse, and the ephemeral realities of documenting Irish urban street art.

A Quick Visit To Summerhill Terrace In Waterford And An Encounter With Two Bin Trucks

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 4th September

Explore the history of Summerhill Terrace in Waterford, from its Victorian roots and connection to the famous Flanagan Brothers to its idiosyncratic guesthouses popular with continental visitors—and the comical chaos of navigating its narrow laneway today

A Quick Visit To Temple Bar 8 May 2026

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 9th May

Discover why Temple Bar in Dublin is a tale of two cities for families. While the daytime offers cobblestone charm, street performers, and the dedicated children’s cultural centre, The Ark, the night-time atmosphere shifts toward rowdy adult nightlife. Learn the best times to visit with kids to enjoy traditional music without the crowds.

A Rewaco German Manufactured Trike As Seen On O'Connell Street

The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 2nd June

A striking dark green Rewaco commercial production trike parked on a Dublin street, showcasing its unique tandem bucket seating, high-end chrome forks, and custom wheels. This high-resolution street photography capture highlights modern urban transportation and exotic vehicle design in a bustling public space.

A Sanctuary in the City - The Garden of Remembrance and the Future of Parnell Square

Urban Cartographer on Friday, 9th January

Discover the history of Dublin's Garden of Remembrance and explore the ambitious new plans for the City Library Project at Parnell Square North. Learn how this historic Georgian square is being transformed into a modern cultural hub while honouring Ireland's past.

A Set Of Murals By Sillyme Which Evolved Over Two Years

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 4th September

A photographic record from Waterford Walls documents how muralist Sillyme transformed Stephen Street over two consecutive years, balancing preserved panels with an evolving central piece of urban expression.

A Stroll Along Slí Chumann na mBan

The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 15th May

Take a historic riverside stroll from Wise’s Quay along Cork’s Slí Chumann na mBan Walkway. Discover the distilling heritage visible across the water, the 1916 republican history behind the path's name, and the modern footbridge linking directly to the Mardyke.

A Very Much Isolated Bernard Shaw On South Richmond Street In Portobello

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 1st October

Explore the redevelopment plans for the original Bernard Shaw site on South Richmond Street in Portobello, Dublin. Discover how the protected Victorian pub building is being preserved and integrated into a major mixed-use scheme alongside the neighbouring Amazon corporate campus.

A Vibrant Mesoamerican Dialogue At Trinity College

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 28th July

An architectural and art-historical review of Sebastián’s bright turquoise public sculpture Chac Mool at Trinity College Dublin, comparing its geometric steel form with Henry Moore’s biomorphic bronze Reclining Connected Forms nearby.

A Walk Along The Balbriggan Viaduct June 2026

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 25th June

Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the historic Balbriggan Railway Viaduct. Explore how this 1843 landmark compares to the famous Boyne Viaduct in Drogheda and why it remains an essential, cherished heartbeat of Balbriggan’s coastal community.

Across The Horizon - Why I Choose Landscape Over Portrait

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 20th June

For those who prefer a completely handheld photography workflow, camera ergonomics heavily favour keeping the body level. Holding a camera natively in landscape orientation allows your elbows to stay tucked firmly against your chest, turning your upper body into a stable, balanced platform that minimises micro-shake.

All Burials Must Be Registered

The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 29th April

Discover the history of Douglas Graveyard in County Cork. Learn why this former Church of Ireland site became a publicly managed cemetery, the significance of its modern burial notices, and the stories of body snatchers and war heroes interred within its walls.

All The Tractors And Trucks Are Gone

The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 12th April

Discover how the Irish Government and An Garda Síochána successfully cleared the April 2026 fuel price blockades. This summary covers the "no-talks" policy under duress, the strategic deployment of the Defence Forces’ "Beast" recovery vehicles at Whitegate Refinery, and the specific excise duty cuts used to stabilise national fuel supplies and restore public order.

An Cailleach Is A Mural By Vera Bugatti And It Is On View In Drogheda

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 6th September

An exploration of Vera Bugatti’s An Cailleach mural on Dominic Street, tracing Drogheda’s journey from an early regional street art hub to a world-class mythological mural trail featuring recent additions like Moxaico’s Balor.

An Excellent Sculpture At The Botanic Gardens By Bob Quinn

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 15th September

A September walk through the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin exploring the past, hiatus, and future of Sculpture in Context, featuring detailed examinations of Bob Quinn's Best Night Ever and Nasser Azam's biomorphic bronze Sepian Blue.

An Ugly Sculpture In Kilkenny

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 28th February

The Ram is a significant example of late 20th-century Irish stone sculpture, executed in the regional "black marble" for which Kilkenny is historically famous. Created by the renowned sculptor Dick Joynt—a leading figure in the Irish "direct carving" tradition—the work exemplifies his interest in heavy, curvilinear forms and the tactile relationship between the artist and the raw material.

An Update On The Infrastructure Behind The Site

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 5th September

We have now more or less completed our migration to RapidWeaver Elements paired with jAlbum, and we are actively phasing out our remaining Headless and Static WordPress sites. Visitors may have noticed our pages loading substantially faster. We tracked down and resolved a major site performance bottleneck that was far from obvious under standard profiling, dramatically cutting overhead across our core sections.

Anchored Void by Michael Warren

William Murphy on Friday, 27th February

Explore the evocative world of Michael Warren’s "Anchored Void" within the Kilkenny Castle Estate. Discover the history and inspiration behind one of Ireland’s leading site-specific sculptors, from the Viking-inspired forms of Dublin’s Wood Quay to the light-filled memorials of Wexford.

Apple WWDC 2026

The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 8th June

WWDC 2026 proved that building foundational models is vastly different from building premium hardware. By relying on competitors to power its primary consumer interface and hitting a regulatory brick wall in Europe, Apple's vision of an all-encompassing, private intelligent assistant feels more fragmented than ever. For a large portion of the world, the upgrade to iOS 27 will be defined not by what is added, but by what is missing.

Arbour Hill And The 1916 Memorials

Urban Cartographer on Friday, 16th January

While the site acts as a general military cemetery, its primary significance lies in being the final resting place of 14 of the executed leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. The memorial is notable for its sombre simplicity, contrasting sharply with the Victorian military architecture of the surrounding former prison complex.

As Seen From The Train From Poyntzpass To Mullaglass 10 July 2026

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 12th July

Discover the rich railway heritage and glacial drumlin landscapes of Ireland with this visual documentation of the Dublin–Belfast main line. This section captures the scenic transit from the historic border village of Poyntzpass, along the path of the 18th-century Newry Canal, through the rural townlands of County Armagh, concluding at the engineering marvel of Mullaglass and the Craigmore Viaduct.

As Soon As I Arrived At The Marriott Hotel I Photographed The Titanic Sign

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 12th July

Explore the history, weight, and symbolism of the iconic 16-tonne Corten steel Titanic sign in Belfast's Titanic Quarter. Discover how weathered steel transformed from an industrial shipyard reference into one of the most popular, self-protecting architectural materials used across Ireland today.

Atalia Road In Galway April 2026

The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 6th April

Explore the unique history and social fabric of Lough Atalia Road in Galway. From the private shoreline gardens and affluent residential mix to the industrial heritage of the Galway Docks and the historic Forthill Graveyard, discover the story of one of the West of Ireland’s most scenic and historic coastal routes.

Back In August 2009 The Docklands Area Was Depressing

The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 8th June

A retrospective look at the transformation of the Dublin Docklands in August 2009. Correcting a camera metadata error reveals a fleeting snapshot of Santiago Calatrava’s Samuel Beckett Bridge just weeks after its historic rotation, alongside the final push for the Luas Red Line extension to The Point.

Balbriggan Is One Of The Drying Harbours Of North County Dublin

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 24th June

Explore the shifting landscape of Balbriggan Harbour, from its engineering as a traditional drying port to the removal of the iconic HMS Portisham. A reflection on maritime history, tidal infrastructure, and the ongoing - Our Balbriggan - rejuvenation project.

Balbriggan Railway Station 23 June 2026

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 24th June

Discover essential information about Balbriggan train station, a historic and vital commuter hub in North County Dublin. Learn about daily Irish Rail services, station facilities, historical architecture, and upcoming DART+ electrification plans.

Ballytrunkle And My Walk Along The River Walk Towards The City Centre

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 3rd September

Discover the rich heritage of Waterford’s Ursuline district, from its 1816 convent foundation along St John’s River to its modern urban revival and scenic riverside walkway.

Balor Of The Evil Eye By Daniel Fernández At Scotch Hall

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 11th September

Discover Moxaico’s colossal mural Balor of the Evil Eye at Scotch Hall, Drogheda—the eighth instalment of the DRAWDA Urban Art Trail along the River Boyne.

Barnardo Square In Context And The Three Fates At Kings Inns

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 28th June

A critical examination of Dublin’s lost public spaces, from the sterile redevelopment of Barnardo Square to the neglect of 1872 Industrial Exhibition statues at King's Inns Park.

Belfast City Quays Gardens Photographed In July 2026 During A Heatwave

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 19th July

Discover City Quays Gardens, Belfast’s award-winning two-acre urban park. Learn about its One Planet Living sustainability standards, rich maritime heritage design elements, ownership by Belfast Harbour, and integrated active travel cycle links.

Belfast Grand Central

Urban Cartographer on Friday, 6th February

The All-Island Strategic Rail Review outlines a transformative future for rail in Ireland, with Belfast Grand Central Station at its core. From reopening the Antrim-Lisburn line to restoring rail to Omagh and Armagh, these plans aim to double passenger capacity and connect 700,000 more people to the network by 2050.

Believe In Magic And A Major Correction

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 18th July

The Illusion vs. The Reality - For a long time, I believed—and published below—that the entire suite of whimsical wood carvings along the Stormont Estate Nature Trails was the custom handiwork of a traditional chainsaw artist. However, during a visit in July 2026, a long conversation with an estate insider completely shattered this illusion.

Bethesda Place And An Unexpected Complex Of Laneways

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 2nd August

An exploration of Bethesda Place and Frederick Lane North off Dorset Street, uncovering the 18th-century origin of the Bethesda Chapel, the mystery of the 1963 Amharclann theatre building, and setting a photographic baseline ahead of the Parnell Square Cultural Quarter redevelopment.

Betting On The Metal And Why Apple's Compute Push Validates Walking Away From The Cloud

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 6th September

Apple’s continued focus on cramming unprecedented neural and graphic capability into compact desktop enclosures confirms where the technological tide is running. The era of blindly offloading every operation to third-party servers is drawing to a close. By taking control of the metal today, we aren’t just saving money on hosting tiers—we are building independent, durable digital estates that will outlast whatever corporate squabbles play out in the cloud.

Bishopmeadows Walk August 2018

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 2nd May

A retrospective on Kilkenny's Bishopmeadows trail, comparing the wilder access of 2018 to the structured pathways of 2026. Discussing a shift to minimalist photography with the Leica Q3 and Fujifilm GFX100RF, and how improved bus frequencies have transformed the hiking experience along the River Nore.

Blackhorse Avenue In January 2026

Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 13th January

Discover the history of Blackhorse Avenue, Dublin 7. From the medieval 'Blackhorse Inn' to the architectural splendour of McKee Barracks and the 1875 stone bridge over the railway cutting, explore this unique road on the edge of Phoenix Park. Read about its military connections, local landmarks, and current redevelopment trends.

Blackrock Baths Photographed In 2008 Using A Canon Classic 5D

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 18th June

Explore the history, architectural evolution, and ultimate decline of Dublin's historic Blackrock Baths. From its 1928 Tailteann Games peak to the 2012 demolition of its iconic diving tower, discover this haunting coastal landmark through a photographer's lens.

Blackrock Castle In Cork September 2018

The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 29th March

A personal review of visiting Blackrock Castle and Observatory in Cork, Ireland. Discover the reality of the 6 km riverside walk, tips on navigating the 202 bus route, and why September might be the best time to avoid the Irish rain.

Blackrock Grotto In Cork

The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 26th April

Explore the history of the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto in Blackrock, Cork. Built in 1958 to mark the Lourdes Centenary, this Marian shrine at Blackrock Pier remains a symbol of protection for local fishermen and a testament to the village's strong community spirit.

Blackrock Station Past And Future

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 9th May

Discover the heritage and current status of Blackrock Train Station. This post explores its 1834 origins, the Victorian architectural preservation, and provides a corrected update on the DART+ fleet modernisation. Learn about the delays facing the new battery-electric trains following international trial concerns and the future infrastructure plans for the South Dublin coastal line.

Blessington Street Basin Public Park Photographed Using A Voigtlander 15mm Lens

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 4th July

Discover the history and current status of the Blessington Street Basin, Dublin’s historic "secret garden" turned public park. Explore its 19th-century engineering origins, its ties to Jameson distillery, and its cultural connection to legendary philosopher and novelist Iris Murdoch, who was born on Blessington Street.

Bob And Joans Walk In Cork City April 2026

The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 19th May

Boeuf Steak-Burger Bar

William on Monday, 24th November

Bohermore Cemetery August 2016

The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 23rd March

A photographic study of Galway’s Bohermore Cemetery. Captured with an ultra-wide Voigtlander lens, these images reveal the stories behind this Victorian-era site.

Bohermore Where Lord Haw Haw Is Buried

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 4th April

Explore the history and architectural nuances of Bohermore Cemetery in Galway. Originally opened in 1880, this "New Cemetery" challenges the traditional definition of Victorian funerary style while serving as the final resting place for figures like Lady Gregory and William Joyce.

Bolands Mills Complex As It Was In March 2009

The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 11th June

Discover the architectural transformation of Dublin’s historic Bolands Mills at Grand Canal Dock. This article explores the dramatic redevelopment that balanced the preservation of 19th-century stone warehouses with the total demolition of its iconic mid-century concrete silos to create a modern tech and residential hub.

Bolton Street College Car Park

Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 14th February

An exploration of the "permanently full" car park sign at Bolton Street College, Dublin. Discussing the transition to digital permits, the use of signage as a deterrent, and why empty parking spaces often appear as "Full" in city centre institutions.

Booterstown Nature Reserve And Station

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 9th May

Discover Booterstown Nature Reserve, a unique saltmarsh sanctuary in South Dublin. Located adjacent to Booterstown DART station, this UNESCO Dublin Bay Biosphere site is a haven for migratory birds and rare flora. Learn about birdwatching opportunities, transport links, and the ecological significance of this urban wilderness.

Bray County Wicklow July 2023

The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 5th May

Discover the transformation of Bray, County Wicklow, from its Victorian heyday as the "Brighton of Ireland" to its 2026 rebirth as a hub of coastal urbanity. Explore its cultural legacy, the impact of the Northern Irish "July Fortnight," and the town's modern evolution, including the opening of the Marine Life Aquarium.

Brian Quilligan Memorial At Lee Fields

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 25th April

The Brian Quilligan memorial at the Lee Fields in Cork is a poignant tribute to a 19-year-old local man who tragically drowned while fishing in October 2011. Created by renowned sculptor Mick Wilkins, the lifelike monument depicts an angler overlooking the River Lee near the Salmon Weir, serving as both a personal family memorial and a landmark of water safety in Cork City.

Bridgefoot Street And Park April 2025

The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 7th May

Bridgefoot Street Park, a recent addition to the Liberties area of Dublin 8, stands as a testament to urban regeneration and community engagement.

Bronze Sculpture Of Pope John Paul II By Imogen Stuart

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 30th June

Discover the history and artistry behind the iconic Pope John Paul II bronze statue at Maynooth College. Sculpted by the renowned German-Irish artist Imogen Stuart in 1987, this monument captures the tender relationship between the papacy and Irish youth, framed by the historic campus Heritage Wall.

Buying From Amazon Is No Longer Worth The Effort

The Local Know-All on Friday, 29th May

The post-Brexit shift completely broke what used to be a seamless procurement route for photographers in Ireland. The transition from the frictionless UK, US, and German Amazon marketplaces to the localized Irish operation has been incredibly frustrating, and my experience highlights a massive systemic decline in both retail value and basic logistical security.

CAPTAIN PLAYS DEAD

William on Friday, 21st November

Cabbage Lane Murals

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 4th April

Discover the hidden gems of Bohermore with a stroll through Cabbage Lane, Galway. Recently transformed by the "Greening the Laneways" project, this historic passage features vibrant community-led murals and floral street art. Learn about the rich history of the "Great Road" and how local residents are using urban art to revitalise one of Galway's oldest residential districts.

Cabra's Wild Park Was Once A Toxic Brownsite But It Is Now A Dog Walking Paradise

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 3rd July

Discover how Dublin’s Mount Bernard Park extension at the Cabra Luas stop transformed a contaminated industrial brownfield site into a thriving, wild urban nature reserve. Learn about Dublin City Council's sustainable rewilding approach to inner-city biodiversity and why local dog walkers love the new trails.

Cactus at Trinity College Dublin - Alexander Calder’s Masterclass in Steel

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 10th October

An architectural and photographic study of Alexander Calder’s 1967 stabile, Cactus Provisoire, situated on Fellows’ Square at Trinity College Dublin beside the Brutalist Berkeley Library. Captured on the Leica Q3.

Camden Yard Failed Development Kevin Street

The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 14th April

Discover the fascinating history of Kevin Street College, from its 1960s heyday with cutting-edge NC machines to the failed Camden Yard development. This post explores the site's transition from a premier technical school to Dublin City Council’s newest civic headquarters.

Camper Van Culture Varies From Country To Country

The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 3rd June

Explore the major differences between UK/Irish camper van culture and American RV travel. From vehicle size and narrow roads to the recent SNP motorhome scandal, discover how geography and lifestyle shape life on the road.

Capel Street On St Patricks Day 2026

The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 10th May

Explore the transformation of Capel Street, Dublin’s longest traffic-free thoroughfare. This guide examines the surge in hotel construction, including major developments like Motel One and new boutique aparthotels, detailing how pedestrianisation is reshaping the hospitality landscape in the heart of Dublin 1.

Capel Street Together With Parliament Street Formed A Hub For The Dublin 2026 Pride Festival

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 27th June

Discover how Dublin City Council transformed Capel Street into a vibrant, immersive Pride flag installation for the 2026 Dublin Pride Parade. Learn more about the city-wide visual celebrations, including iconic street art and decorations that turned Dublin’s busiest thoroughfares into symbols of inclusion and community for Pride 2026.

Celebration By Dick Joynt

Urban Cartographer on Monday, 19th January

Dick Joynt, was a master of stone and bronze whose work possessed a "primitive" and enduring strength. He was a central figure in 20th-century Irish sculpture

Charlemont Mall Was An Ideal Location To Test My iPhone 18 Pro As A Camera

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 1st October

A hands-on field review of the Apple iPhone 18 Pro for street photography, evaluating the upgrade from the 12 Pro Max, native camera software versus Halide, Apple RAW 9 decoding in Nitro Photo, optical flare characteristics, and high-intensity battery consumption on the pavement.

Charlemont Place On The Grand Canal

Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 15th February

Discover the transformation of Charlemont Place along Dublin’s Grand Canal. From its 18th-century industrial roots to the modern Charlemont Square development, explore the history, current commercial status, and the legality of the iconic residential barge homes on the north bank.

Cheers The Paint-A-Box Art By Zippy

Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 7th February

Explore the vibrant street art of the Belfast Canvas Project. Despite battling severe winter weather with a Leica Q3, we document "Cheers!" by Zippy and the city's unique utility box transformations.

Cherry Blossoms In St Stephens Green

The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 12th April

Explore the history and changing seasons of cherry blossoms in Ireland. Discover how the "May blossoms" of the 1950s have shifted to early April due to rising temperatures, and learn about the ancient native Wild Cherry protected under Brehon Law.

Chornobyl Mother By Sandra Bell

The Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 29th April

Explore the newly unveiled Chornobyl Mother sculpture by Sandra Bell in Marina Park, Cork. Commissioned to mark the 40th anniversary of the nuclear disaster, this memorial honours the long-standing humanitarian bond between Cork and the children of Ukraine and Belarus through Adi Roche’s CCI.

Church Avenue To Beechwood Tram Stop

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 22nd June

Join me for a walk from Upper Rathmines to the Beechwood Luas stop. We explore the Victorian history of Church Avenue and Dunville Avenue, reflect on the legacy of local landmarks, and discuss the current pressures facing Dublin’s public transport infrastructure as the city continues to grow.

Church Of The Holy Trinity In Rathmines 21 June 2026

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 22nd June

Discover the history of the Church of the Holy Trinity in Rathmines, a landmark architectural gem designed by John Semple. Explore its origins dating to 1828, its modern community-focused transformation, and how this vibrant parish continues to serve the local Dublin 6 area today.

Church Street Is One Of The Oldest In Dublin

The Urban Cartographer on Sunday, 14th June

Explore the rich history of Dublin’s Church Street, from its ancient origins as a royal highway to its medieval transformation. This article details the architectural evolution of the Capuchin Friary (St. Mary of the Angels), the tragic fire and water damage within St. Michan's historic crypt vaults, and the sobering history behind the 1913 tenement "Collapsed Houses" memorial lamp situated directly across the street in Father Mathew Square.

Church of the Descent of the Holy Spirit In Cork City

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 22nd September

Explore the Church of the Holy Spirit at Dennehy's Cross in Cork, examining its outdoor Way of the Cross, distinctive Neo-Classical architecture, and its historic gathering as the site of Rory Gallagher's 1995 funeral Mass.

City Quay December 2025

Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 11th February

Discover how Belfast’s new urban landscape is changing everything from wildlife behaviour to iconic tourist views. Explore the "anvil" foraging techniques of gulls at City Quays and the controversial "Great Wall of Queen’s Island" that is hiding the Titanic Belfast museum from the city skyline.

Coliemore Road In Dalkey - March 2008

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 15th September

A documentary and architectural comparison of Coliemore Road in Dalkey between March 2008 and September 2026. Contrasting telephoto and wide-angle street photography, this study tracks the evolution of Dalkey’s coastal built environment—from the stalled developments and economic pause of 2008 to sleek contemporary cliffside architecture—alongside the loss of local landmarks like Nosh restaurant and Katy Goodhue’s decommissioned goat sculptures in Dillon’s Park.

Commemorating The 1916 Easter Rising - Cut Out People By Dan Mac Carthy

The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 8th May

Discover the "Cut Out People" sculpture by Danny MacCarthy in Blackrock Park. This moving installation in the 1916 Memorial Garden commemorates the Easter Rising centenary through a powerful use of silhouette and negative space. Explore the intersection of Irish history and contemporary art in this peaceful Dublin sanctuary.

Commonwealth War Grave for Gunner M. Loughren 18816

The Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 3rd March

Remembering Gunner M. Loughren (18816) - A Great War Legacy in Kilkenny. Discover the history of Gunner M. Loughren of the Royal Garrison Artillery, buried at St John's Churchyard, Kilkenny. Explore the significance of this Commonwealth War Grave and the role of Irish soldiers in the First World War.

Construction Project At Constitution Hill Flats

on Wednesday, 14th January

Construction is underway on the regeneration of Dublin's Constitution Hill flats. Led by Grafton Architects, the project retrofits 1960s social housing to deliver 124 energy-efficient homes near Broadstone Luas. Phase 1 is due for completion in Summer 2027.

Contemporary Street Art On Great Patrick Street In Belfast 8 July 2026

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 10th July

Explore the vibrant, neon-drenched street art of Belfast artist HMC (H.M. Constance) on Great Patrick Street near the Ulster University campus. Captured on a Leica Q3, this striking mural blends a pop-art portrait of Marilyn Monroe with rich, tropical botanical foliage, showcasing the city's modern creative evolution next to the iconic city centre hotel complex.

Copy Of A Stone Temple

Urban Cartographer on Wednesday, 31st December

Santry Demesne Public Park holds within its boundaries echoes of a grand past, most notably through a replica of a once-prominent stone temple. This temple, however, is not the original.

Cork Harbour As Seen From Fort Meagher

The Urban Cartographer on Saturday, 18th April

Explore the strategic majesty of Fort Camden Meagher in Crosshaven. This guide details the historic views of Cork Harbour, the fort's dual British and Irish nomenclature, and the immense geographical importance of the world's second-largest natural harbour.

Cowper Tram Stop 21 June 2026

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 22nd June

Discover the history and significance of Cowper Luas stop in Rathmines. Learn about its 2004 establishment, its connection to the historic Harcourt Street railway alignment, and how this Green Line station integrates with the surrounding South Dublin community.

Custom House Attack Memorial

Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 6th January

Discover the history behind the Custom House Memorial in Dublin. We explore the rugged bronze sculpture by Breton artist Yann Renard-Goulet, depicting the mythical figure of Éire and the tragic 1921 burning of the Custom House.

Custom House Square And Nearby

Urban Cartographer on Tuesday, 10th February

Discover the history and modern vibrancy of Custom House Square, Belfast’s premier outdoor event space. From its 19th-century Lanyon-designed architecture and the historic "Speaker’s Corner" to its current status as a concert hub served by the Belfast Glider, explore why this square is the beating heart of the city’s waterfront.

Cut Out People January 2025

The Urban Cartographer on Friday, 8th May

Discover the "Cut Out People" sculpture by Danny MacCarthy in Blackrock Park. This moving installation in the 1916 Memorial Garden commemorates the Easter Rising centenary through a powerful use of silhouette and negative space. Explore the intersection of Irish history and contemporary art in this peaceful Dublin sanctuary.

Dan Kitchener Overpainted His 2015 Mural On Vulcan Street In August 2018

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Thursday, 20th August

Archived street photography from Vulcan Street and O'Connell Street in Waterford, captured in July 2018 prior to the creation of Dan Kitchener's iconic Neon Waves mural. The image documents Kitchener's original 2015 Waterford Walls geisha mural alongside an ethereal "ghost art" monochrome portrait series by artist Le Bas on the adjoining building facade.

David Maker Mural Was Replaced By This Mural By Aurora Campbell

William Murphy - The Urban Cartographer on Monday, 24th August

Documenting the transition of public art in Waterford's Viking Triangle near the Irish Museum of Time, where Australian muralist Aurora Campbell reimagined a site previously painted by Spanish artist David Maker during Waterford Walls. Captured with the Leica Q3.