Talking Statues: A New Way to See Old Dublin

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Food and Travel Guides | January 14, 2022

https://www.foodandtravelguides.com/post/talking-statues-a-new-way-to-see-old-dublin/

As my daughter completed her studies at Trinity College – Dublin, I returned to explore new tours created by Failte Ireland, the country’s major tourism authority. We’d learned that the rivalry between posh Dublin 2 and traditionally working-class Dublin 1 runs deep, much like other North-South conflicts, but the tour of famous statues in town, supplemented by QR codes that can be scanned to hear the “famous” speak ensures enjoyment on both sides of the River Liffey.

Guest Blogger: Gail Clifford from ABLE Travel and Photo

Table of Content: “Talking Statues: A New Way to See Old Dublin”

1. Oscar Wilde

2. George Bernard Shaw

3. Wolfe Tone

4. Molly Malone

5. Trinity College – Dublin

6. Meeting Place

7. Fidelity

8. James Larkin

9. Cú Chulainn

10. James Joyce

11. James Connolly

As we’ve explored our surroundings, we’ve found that anyone with an interest in historical events or with Irish heritage, would be interested in seeing all that is available. It’s also fun to do in the midst of a pub crawl.

To listen to ten of the city’s most famous statues newly granted the gift of gab, all you’ll need is a working telephone (ProTip: take an old phone and get a sim card from Ireland’s telecommunications services “3’” for €20 it gave me 60 minutes of telephone time but, more importantly, free WiFi that I could connect my American cell phone to), and a little shoe leather.

Oscar Wilde

First stop, Oscar Wilde. I’ve visited his statue in Merrion Square more than any other in the city. The emerald coat, the expression on his face, the writer’s lounge as he stares out across the street to his childhood home all fit so well with what you read of his quips and more literary efforts.

Scan the QR code, press the green button that says “Go!” Your phone rings… answer it and the statue will be “speaking” to you via some very talented actors.

You can listen to this witty and flamboyant gent here!

George Bernard Shaw

Next, I crossed the street to the National Gallery of Ireland. They require a reservation for entry but it’s free. George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion (1912) became the movie My Fair Lady (1964). He had close ties to the Gallery and felt he had received most of his education here. Shaw bequeathed a third of his royalties to the museum upon his death. It’s been sufficient to fund programs for disadvantaged youths and society at large.

At the Clare Street entrance, you’ll see his statue in the grand hall.