Fitzwilliam Square: A Georgian Gem in Dublin

Fitzwilliam Square, located in the south of central Dublin, is the last of the city's five Georgian squares and the smallest. Designed from 1789 and laid out in 1792, it was developed by Richard FitzWilliam, the 7th Viscount FitzWilliam, after whom the square is named. The buildings surrounding the square showcase a uniform Georgian architectural style, reflecting the strict conditions set out in the leases issued by Lord Fitzwilliam. The central area of Fitzwilliam Square is a private park, enclosed in 1813, and accessible only to keyholders, primarily residents and property owners around the square. For over 200 years, access to the park has been a privilege, with some residents paying nearly €1,000 annually for a key. While the park is not generally open to the public, its preserved central lawn and perimeter planting contribute to the square's unique character. Historically, Fitzwilliam Square was a popular location for the Irish Social Season, where aristocrats gathered for entertainment between January and St. Patrick's Day. The square also witnessed significant events, including shootings during the Bloody Sunday of 1920. Although there was a proposal to rename the square after Oliver Plunkett in 1921, the residents successfully objected to the change. Today, Fitzwilliam Square remains one of Dublin's most complete and well-preserved Georgian squares, offering visitors a serene glimpse into the city's past.