Our time in Ireland has already taken us from windswept valleys to candlelit cathedrals, with history rising around every corner. In just a few days, we’ve wandered through medieval ruins, seen centuries-old gravestones, and stood beneath a glowing Earth in a library that feels frozen in time. From the stillness of Glendalough to the sparkle of Waterford crystal, each stop has pulled us deeper into the soul of Irish culture, where myth, memory, and craftsmanship live side by side.
A Harp Bridge
The Samuel Beckett Bridge spans the River Liffey in Dublin. Its graceful, modern design resembles a giant Irish harp laid on its side. Opened in 2009, it can swing open to allow boats to pass.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, founded in 1191, rises proudly in the heart of the capital city. With its soaring Gothic arches, detailed stonework, and centuries of religious and political history, it reflects the grandeur and authority of the medieval Church.
The Ruins of Glendalough
In contrast to St. Patrick’s, the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul at Glendalough sits in quiet ruin among the trees and lakes of County Wicklow. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries, it was the heart of a remote monastic community founded by St. Kevin. Its stone walls and rounded arch leading into what was once the sanctuary area still stand.
The Round Tower
The Round Tower at Glendalough rises nearly 100 feet high and dates back to the 10th or 11th century. Built from finely cut granite, it once served as a bell tower, lookout, and place of refuge for the monastic community founded by St. Kevin. The opening near the bottom left of the photo is the original doorway. It’s positioned about 10 feet above the ground to protect the structure’s stability and to prevent easy access during attacks.
Kevin’s Kitchen
Despite its name, St. Kevin’s Kitchen is a 12th-century stone church, not a kitchen. It earned the nickname because its round bell tower looks like a chimney. The building features a vaulted stone roof and is one of the best-preserved structures in Glendalough’s monastic site.
Walter Byrnes, 18th Century Centenarian
One of the most intriguing gravestones in the Glendalough cathedral graveyard belongs to Walter Byrne, who, according to the worn inscription, died in 1750 at the age of 106. But our guide shared a twist — it’s said that after Walter’s death, his son continued using his father’s name to avoid losing the land lease, which was still in Walter’s name. In a time when leases often ended or changed upon the tenant’s death, this bit of cleverness may have kept the family home secure for another generation.
The Long Room
The Long Room at Trinity College Dublin is one of the most awe-inspiring library spaces in the world. Built in the early 18th century, it stretches over 200 feet with a soaring barrel-vaulted ceiling and dark oak bookcases lining both sides. Housing over 200,000 of the library’s oldest books, the room feels like you’re stepping into the past. However, many of the shelves are empty because most of the books have been temporarily removed for cleaning and conservation.
Gaia
Suspended high in the Long Room, Gaia is a stunning, rotating model of Earth created by artist Luke Jerram. Measuring over 20 feet in diameter and based on detailed NASA imagery, it offers a breathtaking view of our planet as seen from space. In one well-timed photo, Mrs. G effortlessly holds Gaia above her head.
The Brian Boru Harp
Encased in glass beneath the vaulted ceiling, the Brian Boru Harp is Ireland’s oldest surviving harp and a powerful symbol of national identity. Crafted in the 14th or 15th century from oak and willow, it inspired the official emblem of Ireland and the logo for Guinness.
The Irish Constitution
The Irish Constitution and the original 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic are displayed with quiet reverence. They represent Ireland’s path to sovereignty.
Waterford Crystal Factory
Mrs. G and I took the Waterford Crystal factory tour and were fascinated by the artistry behind every piece. We watched skilled artisans shape molten crystal, then cut, engrave, and polish it entirely by hand using techniques passed down for generations.
New Year’s Ball Drop
Besides glassware, Waterford Crystal also creates unique, custom pieces for clients worldwide — from sports trophies and corporate gifts to iconic works like the New Year’s Eve ball in Times Square. It’s covered in 2,688 triangular Waterford crystal tiles.
We’ve covered a lot of ground, but we’re just getting started. If the last few days are any guide, there’s no telling what unexpected beauty or bit of history we’ll stumble into next.