23 Mar O’Connell Bridge, Dublin
O’Connell Bridge, named after the founder of Irish nationalism, Dan O’Connell, the Liberator (who’s statue by Foley, appears on the extreme right), is the principal bridge across the Liffey. Once known as Carlisle Bridge it was rebuilt in 1794 and again in 1880. Stand long enough upon it and you will be bound to meet the most Dubliners of your acquaintance, alive or dead, on their way to the Gaiety Theatre or Glasnevin Cemetery, for this bridge is the main life-line between North and South Dublin. A seagull’s sweep above it will take in the hub and hubbub of the city, for here are the principal banks, the offices of Government, the brewery, the Universities, the Cathedrals, the excellent restaurants, the theatres, the fine radio centre, and the internal terminus for everything. Time and space are joined in one flesh round the ever-and-nevering nerve of the Liffey, and the feeling of piety and porter is never far from it. Down river one looks onwards the North Wall, the departure part for England and for agonising reappraisal. Up river are the far reaches of tall painted houses lining the Liffey quays, steadfastly old and reassuring.
O’Connell Bridge and Dublin are a must see attraction on your tours of Ireland.