Located on the island’s east coast, Dublin is the capital of, and largest city in Ireland. We spent a lovely day walking about downtown Dublin, and visited the beautiful Old Library at Trinity College. The library is home to an ancient Christian manuscript called the Book of Kells. Taking its name from the Abbey of Kells in County Meath (where the book was kept for centuries), the manuscript is a masterpiece of both calligraphy and complexed ornamentation. Believed to have been created around 800 AD, the Book of Kells contains four gospels of the New Testament. Illustrating and decorating the text are swirling figures of humans and creatures, together with Celtic knots in interlacing patterns and vibrant colors. Both the Library and the Book itself were really quite marvelous!
The Custom House Visitor Centre sits on the bank of the River Liffey in central Dublin
A spiral staircase in the Long Room of the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin
Busts of famous Irish scientists and artists line the Long Room
Photography is not allowed in the room that holds the Book of Kells. Happily though, we were able to take this photo. It’s a blow up of a decorative page from the Book of Kells that was displayed in the lobby of the exhibit.
Also displayed in the Long Room is the Brian Boru Harp - one of only three surviving medieval Gaelic harps, and a national symbol of Ireland … as well as the Guinness Beer logo
The harp’s highly decorated soundbox was carved from a single block of willow
Looking down the Long Room with a spinning globe artwork at one end
‘Gaia’ is a lighted, spinning, seven meter diameter ball suspended from the vaulted ceiling which displays NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface
The mesmerizing art piece is the work of artist, Luke Jerram
Lastly, here is a view of a busy market street in downtown Dublin
Upon a friend’s recommendation, we also visited the city of Kilkenny, which is located towards the heart of the island. It was originally founded in the 6th century and contains many historic and medieval buildings. Kilkenny had a wonderfully welcoming cultural vibe and some great pubs! We spent a great day exploring the city streets. Thanks Michael!
One of the many stone alleyways in Kilkenny
Enjoying a pint at the Kyteler’s Inn
The highly skilled band played Irish folk music, of course
John’s Bridge over the River Nore in downtown Kilkenny
The Hurling Statue, “Dedicated to All Who Hurl.” Hurling is the national sport of Ireland - sort of a mix of lacrosse, hockey and baseball
Looking down along the River Nore in Kilkenny
Just outside of Kilkenny, here’s a typical roadside pub/eatery in the Irish countryside
Chris admiring a local car show that just happened to be at our campground near Kilkenny - yes, that’s the Thunder Puffin in the background!
The famous Thunder Puffin at a car show!!!! Love it!!!! Looks like the famous lousy weather of Ireland finally caught up with you. Where the hell are you now?
Yeah, the Puffin definitely stole the show 😜
We just pulled into Luxembourg. Will be here for a week, then back to the UK!
Oooh, the library! It was awfully crowded. I hope everyone was being quiet and behaving …
So crowded! But it still felt and smelled like a library in the best way 😁
I found Kilkenny very charming. I find alleyways with bars, restaurants, and shops intriguing; mind you, busy, well lit narrow alleyways.
It brings to mind, how has the epicurean side of things been going on your travels?
Such scenic towns and landscapes! The food has been quite good in Ireland, especially. We had smoked salmon and tuna that was incredibly delicious. Kyteler’s had a wickedly good lamb stew and, of course, the Guinness is the best. 😋
❤️❤️❤️👏👏
😊🙏🏻
Just like being there. Thanks for taking us along.