Merrion Square: Dublin's Georgian Gem

• HelloDia dhuit
  [dee-ah gwit]
• GoodbyeSlán
  [slawn]
• YesTá
  [taw]
• NoNíl
  [neel]
• Please/You're welcomeLe do thoil/Tá fáilte romhat
  [leh duh hull/taw fawl-cheh roh-at]
• Thank youGo raibh maith agat
  [guh rev mah ag-at]
• Excuse me/SorryMaith thú/Á brón orm
  [mah hoo/ah brohn or-um]
• How are you?Conas atá tú?
  [kun-us ah-taw too?]
• Fine. And you?Tá mé go maith. Agus tú?
  [taw may guh mah. ah-gus too?]
• Do you speak English?An labhraíonn tú Béarla?
  [an lawv-ree-un too bayr-lah?]
• I don't understandNí thuigim
  [nee hug-im]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBa mhaith liom an bhialann a fheiceáil, le do thoil
  [bah wye lum on vee-lan ah eck-uh-ahl, leh duh hull]
• I don't eat meatNí ithim feoil
  [nee ih-him foh-il]
• Cheers!Sláinte!
  [slawn-cheh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBa mhaith liom íoc, le do thoil
  [bah wye lum ee-uk, leh duh hull]

• Help!Cabhraigh!
  [kuv-ray]
• Go away!Imigh uaim!
  [ih-mee uhm]
• Call the Police!Glan an Garda!
  [glawn un gar-dah]
• Call a doctor!Glan dochtúir!
  [glawn duck-too-ir]
• I'm lostTá mé caillte
  [taw may kahl-cheh]
• I'm illTáim tinn
  [taw-im chin]

• I'd like to buy...Ba mhaith liom ceannach...
  [bah wye lum ky-uh-nuck]
• I'm just lookingNíl ach ag breathnú
  [neel okh egg brack-noo]
• How much is it?Cén chostas é?
  [kayn kus-tus ay?]
• That's too expensiveTá sé ró-dhaor
  [taw shay roh-yur]
• Can you lower the price?An féidir leat an praghas a laghdú?
  [an fay-dur lat on prug-hus ah lay-goo?]

• What time is it?Cén t-am é?
  [kayn tahm ay?]
• It's one o'clockTá sé a haon
  [taw shay ah hayn]
• Half past (10)Leathuair tar éis a deich
  [lah-hoo-ir tar aysh ah deh]
• MorningMaidin
  [mah-jin]
• AfternoonTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• EveningTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• YesterdayInné
  [in-ay]
• TodayInniu
  [in-yoo]
• TomorrowAmárach
  [ah-maw-rakh]
• 1A haon
  [ah hayn]
• 2A dó
  [ah doh]
• 3A trí
  [ah tree]
• 4A ceathair
  [ah kya-hir]
• 5A cúig
  [ah koo-ig]
• 6A sé
  [ah shay]
• 7A seacht
  [ah shakht]
• 8A hocht
  [ah hukht]
• 9A naoi
  [ah nee]
• 10A deich
  [ah deh]

• Where's a/the...?Cá bhfuil...?
  [kah will...?]
• What's the address?Cén seoladh atá air?
  [kayn shol-ah ah-taw air?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?An féidir leat léarscáil a thaispeáint?
  [an fay-dur lat lay-ar-skawl ah hash-paint?]
• When's the next (bus)?Cathain atá an bus seo ar fáil?
  [kah-hin ah-taw on bus shuh air fawl?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticéad (go ...)
  [tick-ayd (guh ...)]

Merrion Square was developed in the late 18th century as part of the Georgian expansion of Dublin. Designed by the architect Edward Lovett Pearce, the square was completed in the 1760s and became a prime example of Georgian architecture, characterized by its elegant townhouses and symmetrical layout. The square was originally intended as a fashionable residential area for the wealthy elite of Dublin.

Merrion Square has long been a center for Dublin's cultural life. It was home to notable figures such as Oscar Wilde, who was born at 21 Westland Row, adjacent to the square. His childhood home is marked by a distinctive plaque and serves as a reminder of the area's literary heritage. The square is also associated with other prominent Irish figures, reflecting its importance in Dublin's artistic and intellectual circles.

In the 19th century, Merrion Square was transformed from an exclusive residential area into a public park. It became a popular location for both locals and visitors, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and a variety of statues, including a prominent statue of Oscar Wilde. The park hosts various art exhibitions and cultural events, further embedding it in the fabric of Dublin's artistic community.

Throughout the 20th century, Merrion Square witnessed various political and social movements. It has served as a gathering place for protests and demonstrations, reflecting the evolving political landscape in Ireland. The nearby Dáil Éireann (the Irish Parliament) and government buildings underscore the square's connection to Dublin's political life.

Today, Merrion Square stands as a vibrant neighborhood that balances historical significance with modern culture. The area is known for its art galleries, cafes, and proximity to institutions such as the National Museum of Ireland – Natural History. The blend of Georgian architecture and contemporary life makes Merrion Square a focal point for both residents and tourists, celebrating Dublin's rich history while embracing its future.

Merrion Square is conveniently located in the heart of Dublin. From Dublin Airport, you can take the Airlink Express 747 or 757 bus, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes to reach O'Connell Street. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to Merrion Square. Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly from the airport. If you're coming from other neighborhoods, Dublin's extensive bus network offers multiple routes to Merrion Square, with stops nearby on Merrion Square North and South.

Merrion Square is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Dublin's public transport system includes buses, the Luas tram, and DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit). The nearest DART station is Pearse Station, about a 10-minute walk from the square. Bicycles are also a popular option; you can use Dublin's bike-sharing service, DublinBikes, which has a station near Merrion Square. Be mindful of cycling on pedestrian paths, as this is not allowed.

Merrion Square is generally a safe area for tourists, but it is wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas. While Dublin has no specific high-crime zones targeting tourists, areas like O'Connell Street and some parts of Temple Bar can experience petty crime. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious with your valuables.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services. The nearest hospital is St. Vincent's University Hospital, located a short taxi ride away from Merrion Square. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available in the area for minor health issues; the nearest one can be found on Baggot Street.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and consider the weather; Dublin can be quite rainy. Don’t wear overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do be respectful at nearby churches, such as St. Stephen's Church. Don’t take photos of people without permission. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and give up your seat to those in need. Don’t block doors or walkways on buses or trams. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and eye contact. Don’t interrupt conversations; wait for a pause to join in. Eating & Drinking: Do try traditional Irish dishes and local pubs. Don’t drink excessively in public spaces.

To experience Merrion Square like a local, visit the Sunday market at nearby Dublin's Merrion Square Park, where you can find artisan foods and crafts. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the beautiful Georgian architecture. Engage with locals at cafes along the square, and don’t miss the chance to visit the Oscar Wilde Memorial located in the park. If you have time, check out the nearby National Gallery of Ireland for free art exhibitions.