I'm just someone who enjoys knowing a little about my local area, and helping others to learn about theirs too.
If you'd like to contribute to this website, please get in touch.
The General Post Office (GPO) in Dublin stands as a monumental edifice in the heart of O’Connell Street, formerly known as Sackville Street. Opened to the public in January 1818, the GPO was designed by the renowned architect Francis Johnston in the Greek Revival style. Beyond its function as the principal post office in Ireland, the GPO holds a distinguished...
The Ha’penny Bridge, officially known as the Liffey Bridge, is one of Dublin’s most recognizable landmarks and an enduring symbol of the city’s historical and cultural tapestry. Opened on May 19, 1816, this pedestrian bridge spans the River Liffey, connecting Liffey Street on the north side with Merchant’s Arch on the south. The bridge gets its...
Dunguaire Castle stands as a prominent 16th-century tower house located on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay near Kinvara, in County Galway, Ireland. This castle, named after the legendary King Guaire of Connacht, encapsulates a blend of architectural beauty and historical depth, making it a significant cultural landmark in Ireland. ContentsHistory of Dunguaire...
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin, formerly known as The Gresham Hotel, is a historic four-star hotel located on O’Connell Street, one of Dublin’s main thoroughfares. Established in 1817, it has served as a key landmark in Dublin for over two centuries. The hotel has undergone several ownership changes and renovations throughout its history, reflecting...
The surname O’Kennedy, rooted deeply in Irish heritage, carries a historical resonance that traces back to the early medieval period. Known in Irish as Ó Cinnéide, the name is synonymous with leadership, royal lineage, and a pivotal role in the socio-political landscape of ancient Ireland. Origins and Etymology The O’Kennedy name derives from the Gaelic Ó...
Heraldry, the art and science of designing, displaying, and studying armorial bearings, plays a significant role in Irish history and culture. In Ireland, family crests and coats of arms are not just ornamental or symbolic artifacts; they are profound expressions of heritage, signifying family identity, social status, and ancestral lineage. This article delves into...
Irish coats of arms and family crests are rich with history and symbolism, reflecting the cultural, familial, and historical narratives of Ireland. These emblems, used throughout centuries, serve as more than just decorative heraldic designs; they connect families to their ancestral pasts and communicate their values, achievements, and statuses. This article delves...
The O’Neal surname, with its varied spellings including O’Neill, O’Neale, and O’Neil, is steeped in a rich tapestry of Irish history and tradition. As one of Ireland’s most distinguished and ancient surnames, its origins and evolution provide a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s past, from its early medieval society through...
The Fomorians, or Fomóire, are a supernatural race in Irish mythology, often depicted as hostile and monstrous beings. These entities are considered one of the oldest and most powerful forces in the mythological history of Ireland, embodying the dangerous and chaotic elements of nature. They are central to numerous Irish mythological narratives, frequently appearing...
McDermott’s Castle is located on Castle Island, within Lough Key, County Roscommon, Ireland. It is recognized as a protected national monument. The site has hosted fortifications since the 12th century, reflecting a long history of occupation and use. The current structure includes remnants from various periods, with significant modifications and additions...