IRISH NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL GARDENS AT ISLANDBRIDGE
IRISH NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL GARDENS AT ISLANDBRIDGE [TUESDAY 14 JANUARY 2025]
The Irish National War Memorial Gardens in Dublin, located in Islandbridge, serve as a poignant and beautiful tribute to the Irish men and women who lost their lives during the First World War. Designed by the renowned British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, they are considered one of the most important war memorials in Europe.
Here's a closer look at this significant site:
A Place of Remembrance
The gardens are primarily dedicated to the memory of the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the Great War (1914-1918). However, they also honour all Irishmen who perished in that conflict. This inclusivity is important, acknowledging the diverse backgrounds and motivations of those who served.
Architectural and Landscape Design
Lutyens' design masterfully blends architectural elements with the natural landscape. Key features include:
Sunken Rose Gardens: Two circular sunken rose gardens form the heart of the memorial, providing a tranquil and contemplative space.
Granite Bookrooms: Four granite bookrooms house illuminated manuscripts created by the renowned Irish artist Harry Clarke. These books contain the names of all the Irish war dead, ensuring their individual sacrifices are remembered.
The Stone of Remembrance: A large rectangular stone lies at the centre of the main avenue, echoing similar stones found in other Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries.
Extensive Planting: The gardens feature a variety of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous borders, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
Historical Context
The memorial's construction began in the 1930s, with the official opening taking place in 1940. Its creation was a significant undertaking, involving ex-servicemen from both the British Army and the Irish National Army in its construction, further highlighting its role as a symbol of shared loss and reconciliation.
A Place for Reflection and Recreation
Today, the Irish National War Memorial Gardens are not only a place of remembrance but also a popular public park. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admire the architecture and horticulture, and reflect on the human cost of war.
The gardens' location, adjacent to Phoenix Park and near the River Liffey, adds to their appeal, providing a peaceful and accessible green space within Dublin city.
The Irish National War Memorial Gardens in Dublin, located in Islandbridge, serve as a poignant and beautiful tribute to the Irish men and women who lost their lives during the First World War. Designed by the renowned British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, they are considered one of the most important war memorials in Europe.
Here's a closer look at this significant site:
A Place of Remembrance
The gardens are primarily dedicated to the memory of the 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the Great War (1914-1918). However, they also honour all Irishmen who perished in that conflict. This inclusivity is important, acknowledging the diverse backgrounds and motivations of those who served.
Architectural and Landscape Design
Lutyens' design masterfully blends architectural elements with the natural landscape. Key features include:
Sunken Rose Gardens: Two circular sunken rose gardens form the heart of the memorial, providing a tranquil and contemplative space.
Granite Bookrooms: Four granite bookrooms house illuminated manuscripts created by the renowned Irish artist Harry Clarke. These books contain the names of all the Irish war dead, ensuring their individual sacrifices are remembered.
The Stone of Remembrance: A large rectangular stone lies at the centre of the main avenue, echoing similar stones found in other Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemeteries.
Extensive Planting: The gardens feature a variety of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous borders, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
Historical Context
The memorial's construction began in the 1930s, with the official opening taking place in 1940. Its creation was a significant undertaking, involving ex-servicemen from both the British Army and the Irish National Army in its construction, further highlighting its role as a symbol of shared loss and reconciliation.
A Place for Reflection and Recreation
Today, the Irish National War Memorial Gardens are not only a place of remembrance but also a popular public park. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admire the architecture and horticulture, and reflect on the human cost of war.
The gardens' location, adjacent to Phoenix Park and near the River Liffey, adds to their appeal, providing a peaceful and accessible green space within Dublin city.
IRISH NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL GARDENS AT ISLANDBRIDGE