The Famine Memorial: A Tribute to Resilience
Explore The Famine Memorial in Dublin, a haunting tribute to Ireland's Great Famine, where history, art, and resilience intertwine.
The Famine Memorial, located along Custom House Quay in Dublin, is a powerful tribute to the suffering endured by the Irish during the Great Famine of the 19th century. This sculptural ensemble, designed by artist Rowan Gillespie, features hauntingly realistic figures of famine-stricken individuals, capturing their despair and hardship in a way that resonates deeply with visitors. As you wander through the memorial, you will encounter the lifelike representations of men, women, and children, each a testament to the resilience and strength of the Irish spirit amidst unimaginable adversity. The memorial serves not only as a reminder of a tragic period in Ireland's history but also as a beacon of hope and endurance, inviting reflection and understanding from all who visit. Situated along the scenic River Liffey, the Famine Memorial is surrounded by a vibrant urban landscape, making it an ideal stop for those exploring Dublin. The site is easily accessible on foot, and its central location allows visitors to combine a trip to the memorial with other nearby attractions, such as the Custom House and the iconic Ha'penny Bridge. The area is well-kept, providing an atmosphere of calmness and contemplation, perfect for those looking to connect with Ireland’s history. The memorial is open year-round, allowing visitors to come at any time to reflect on its significance. It's advisable to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts dramatic shadows on the sculptures, enhancing their emotional impact. The Famine Memorial not only stands as an artistic achievement but also offers an essential narrative of survival and remembrance, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to grasp the depth of Ireland's historical landscape.
Local tips
- Visit during golden hour for the best lighting for photographs.
- Take a moment to read the inscriptions nearby for deeper historical context.
- Pair your visit with a stroll along the River Liffey for a scenic experience.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the significance of the memorial.
A brief summary to The Famine Memorial
- Custom House Quay, Dublin, North Wall, IE
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from Dublin City Centre, head towards O'Connell Bridge. Cross the bridge and once you're on the north side of the River Liffey, turn left onto Burgh Quay. Continue walking along Burgh Quay until you reach the junction with Custom House Quay. At this point, turn right onto Custom House Quay. Continue straight for about 10 minutes, and you will see The Famine Memorial on your left, near the Custom House.
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DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit)
If you are near a DART station, board a train heading towards the city center and disembark at the 'Connolly' station. From Connolly Station, exit and head west towards Amiens Street. Cross over to Custom House Quay and walk along the quay, heading east for about 10 minutes until you reach The Famine Memorial, which will be on your right.
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Bus
For those near a bus stop, you can catch any bus that travels towards the city center. Get off at the stop closest to Custom House Quay. From there, walk along Custom House Quay, heading east for approximately 5-10 minutes. The Famine Memorial will be located on your left side along the quay.
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Bike
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the Dublin bike-sharing stations. Start at a station near the city center and bike towards Custom House Quay. Follow the quay eastward for about 10 minutes, and you will find The Famine Memorial on your left. There are bike lanes along the quay for your safety.
Attractions Nearby to The Famine Memorial
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World Poverty Stone
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Scherzer Rolling Lift Bridges
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Triumphal Arch
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The Jeanie Johnston: An Irish Famine Story
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EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
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Dublin Discovered Boat Tours
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Seán O'Casey Bridge
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CHQ Dublin
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Irish Seaman's National Memorial (1990) by Niall Montgomery
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Custom House Visitor Centre
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The Custom House
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James Connolly Memorial
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Liberty Hall Theatre
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Constance Markievicz and Poppet (1998) by Elizabeth McLaughlin
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Science Gallery Dublin
Landmarks nearby to The Famine Memorial
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Custom House Quay
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The Linesman
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Patrick Sheahan Memorial
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Trinity College Dublin
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Museum Building (Geology, Geography and Civil Engineering)
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The National Wax Museum Plus
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Ecological Museum at Trinity College
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O'Connell Bridge
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The Wishing Hand
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O'Connell Monument
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The Campanile of Trinity College
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William Smith O'Brien Statue
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The Book of Kells Experience
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Jim Larkin Statue
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James Joyce Statue