Although Mayes did very little exploration of Ireland in her book "Year in the World" I have taken a small detour as I very much want to explore The Emerald Isle, and all that it has to offer. In Rick Steve's Tour Book: Ireland, he opens with
Flung onto the foggy fringe of the Atlantic like a mossy millstone, Ireland drips with mystery, drawing you in for a closer look, and then surprising you.
Yeah. I'm hooked.
So today we'll begin in the capital (and largest city) Dublin.
Dublin sits at the mouth of the River Liffey and the name Dublin translates
from the Gaelic word Dublind meaning "black or dark pool" in reference to the
dark tidal pool where the River Liffey and the River Poddle intersect
Dublin was originally settled by The Vikings in the 10th Century.
Some of the sights include
Dublin Castle and Gardens
(tour)
https://youtu.be/o-u_5EJuRsA
(tour)
https://youtu.be/JFHU_SnIWPU
A historic jail used by the British to imprison Irish political prisoners...it now serves as a museum of that time.
Trinity College
(tour)
https://youtu.be/uwnwFCV6ri0
Trinity College was Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I as a way of indoctrinating the mostly Catholic population to the Protestant religion.
Another interesting site is the
National Museum of Archaeology and History.
(tour...part one of several...start with this one and continue with part two and so on)
https://youtu.be/ydVKZdFyfVk
Including the Clonycavan Man. A 2,400 year old peat-bog man completely preserved, and on display.
There are also several walking tours available of the city
https://youtu.be/77zYR0w2WAM
https://youtu.be/CCYCkydBIik
And when in Ireland ordering a beer (commonly referred to as a pint)...be aware you'll be getting
one of these. A thick creamy Guinness Stout served at room temperature. Not to be served cold which makes it VERY bitter.
If you want something else you'll have to specify a brand.
And there you have it. A bit of Dublin.
More anon.
