A SECTION OF LIFFEY VALLEY LINEAR PARK BETWEEN ISLAND BRIDGE AND CHAPELIZOD
EXPLORING LIFFEY PARK [A SECTION OF LIFFEY VALLEY LINEAR PARK BETWEEN ISLAND BRIDGE AND CHAPELIZOD]
Dublin boasts over 200 public parks of varying sizes, distributions, and characters within its administrative area. These parks provide recreational, cultural, environmental, and social benefits to the city, and Park Services is responsible for their planning, design, maintenance, and management.
Among these urban green spaces is Liffey Park, a picturesque stretch along the River Liffey that meanders through Dublin's heart. This photographic series focuses on the section of Liffey Park situated between the National War Memorial and the charming village of Chapelizod.
Locating Liffey Park
To orient ourselves within this section of Liffey Park, it's essential to identify key landmarks. The Irish National War Memorial Gardens, located in Islandbridge, serve as our starting point. These gardens, a solemn and beautiful tribute to the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the First World War, stand as a permanent memorial to all Irishmen who perished in the Great War. They are adjacent to Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed public parks, and can be accessed from Con Colbert Road and South Circular Road.
At the western end of this section of Liffey Park lies the village of Chapelizod. Nestled in the wooded valley of the River Liffey, approximately 6km west of Dublin city centre, Chapelizod is known for its strong community spirit and historical charm, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The village's association with Iseult of Ireland adds a touch of local legend.
A Journey Through Time
The River Liffey has been Dublin's lifeblood since its earliest settlements. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around the river's mouth was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period by farmers and fishermen. The Liffey played a crucial role in Dublin's establishment and growth, providing a vital route for transportation and trade. Over the centuries, the riverbanks have witnessed the rise and fall of civilisations, from Vikings to Normans, each leaving their mark on the landscape. The earliest known stone bridge over the Liffey in Dublin was the Bridge of Dublin, built in 1428 by the Dominicans. This replaced an older wooden structure and incorporated architectural features such as a chapel and a bakehouse.
In the 1970s, during the development of Wood Quay, the discovery of a significant Viking settlement further highlighted the rich historical tapestry woven into Liffey Park and the Liffey's enduring presence in Dublin's evolution.
Features and Amenities
Liffey Park offers a diverse range of features catering to various interests. The parkland provides opportunities for leisurely strolls, invigorating runs, and peaceful moments by the river.
Within the broader Liffey Valley Park, a variety of amenities are available, including playgrounds, a petting farm, dog walking tracks, fairy trails, rose gardens, and fishing lakes. A BMX track in St Catherine's Park adds an element of excitement for those seeking more adventurous pursuits.
Liffey Valley Park is more than just a recreational space; it reflects the city's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and promoting sustainable development. A strategy is in place to develop and promote Liffey Valley Park, focusing on recreation, tourism, economic development, and habitat creation. This strategy encompasses various sections within the park, including Celbridge, Leixlip, St Catherine's Park, Lucan, Anna Liffey Mills, Strawberry Beds, Palmerstown, Mill Race, Chapelizod/St Lawrence, Phoenix Park, and Memorial Park. Flagship projects within Liffey Valley Park, such as those in Islandbridge and Chapelizod, aim to enhance the park's amenities and accessibility.
Dublin boasts over 200 public parks of varying sizes, distributions, and characters within its administrative area. These parks provide recreational, cultural, environmental, and social benefits to the city, and Park Services is responsible for their planning, design, maintenance, and management.
Among these urban green spaces is Liffey Park, a picturesque stretch along the River Liffey that meanders through Dublin's heart. This photographic series focuses on the section of Liffey Park situated between the National War Memorial and the charming village of Chapelizod.
Locating Liffey Park
To orient ourselves within this section of Liffey Park, it's essential to identify key landmarks. The Irish National War Memorial Gardens, located in Islandbridge, serve as our starting point. These gardens, a solemn and beautiful tribute to the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the First World War, stand as a permanent memorial to all Irishmen who perished in the Great War. They are adjacent to Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest enclosed public parks, and can be accessed from Con Colbert Road and South Circular Road.
At the western end of this section of Liffey Park lies the village of Chapelizod. Nestled in the wooded valley of the River Liffey, approximately 6km west of Dublin city centre, Chapelizod is known for its strong community spirit and historical charm, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The village's association with Iseult of Ireland adds a touch of local legend.
A Journey Through Time
The River Liffey has been Dublin's lifeblood since its earliest settlements. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around the river's mouth was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period by farmers and fishermen. The Liffey played a crucial role in Dublin's establishment and growth, providing a vital route for transportation and trade. Over the centuries, the riverbanks have witnessed the rise and fall of civilisations, from Vikings to Normans, each leaving their mark on the landscape. The earliest known stone bridge over the Liffey in Dublin was the Bridge of Dublin, built in 1428 by the Dominicans. This replaced an older wooden structure and incorporated architectural features such as a chapel and a bakehouse.
In the 1970s, during the development of Wood Quay, the discovery of a significant Viking settlement further highlighted the rich historical tapestry woven into Liffey Park and the Liffey's enduring presence in Dublin's evolution.
Features and Amenities
Liffey Park offers a diverse range of features catering to various interests. The parkland provides opportunities for leisurely strolls, invigorating runs, and peaceful moments by the river.
Within the broader Liffey Valley Park, a variety of amenities are available, including playgrounds, a petting farm, dog walking tracks, fairy trails, rose gardens, and fishing lakes. A BMX track in St Catherine's Park adds an element of excitement for those seeking more adventurous pursuits.
Liffey Valley Park is more than just a recreational space; it reflects the city's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and promoting sustainable development. A strategy is in place to develop and promote Liffey Valley Park, focusing on recreation, tourism, economic development, and habitat creation. This strategy encompasses various sections within the park, including Celbridge, Leixlip, St Catherine's Park, Lucan, Anna Liffey Mills, Strawberry Beds, Palmerstown, Mill Race, Chapelizod/St Lawrence, Phoenix Park, and Memorial Park. Flagship projects within Liffey Valley Park, such as those in Islandbridge and Chapelizod, aim to enhance the park's amenities and accessibility.
A SECTION OF LIFFEY VALLEY LINEAR PARK BETWEEN ISLAND BRIDGE AND CHAPELIZOD