What is the famous main street in the city of Dublin?
What is the famous main street in the city of Dublin? – O’Connell Street is the main street in the city of Dublin in Ireland, and is widely recognized for its grandeur and historical significance. This thoroughfare stretches 500m long and up to 49m wide, making it one of the widest streets on the continent.
In Ireland, Dublin, the street has become iconic since it was first developed in the early 19th century, and is lined with shops, restaurants, historic monuments and many other attractions for visitors. It is also a popular hangout spot for locals, who come to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and admire the impressive architecture that can be found here. O’Connell Street is truly one of Dublin’s most beloved landmarks, and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
What’s more, O’Connell Street is steeped in history. Notable landmarks that can be found here include the GPO (General Post Office), which was at the center of the 1916 Easter Rising; Clery’s Department Store, a Dublin institution since 1853; and The Spire of Dublin, an iconic monument that stands at the center of the street. With its grand architecture, rich history and unique atmosphere, O’Connell Street is surely one of Dublin’s most iconic attractions.
General Post Office
The General Post Office (GPO) located in Dublin, Ireland is one of the most iconic and symbolic buildings in the city. Built in 1818, it was a hub for revolutionary activity during the 1916 Easter Rising, when Irish rebels occupied it and declared the establishment of an independent republic. The GPO has been witness to much of Ireland’s tumultuous history, and is still a major post office today. It also houses the GPO Witness History Visitor Experience, which includes interactive exhibits on the 1916 Easter Rising and other important events in Irish history. Visitors can explore the rich historical significance of this building through photographs, audio recordings, artifacts, and more. The GPO provides an opportunity to explore the history of Dublin and Ireland as a whole, making it a must-see destination in the city.
Clery’s Department Store
Clery’s Department Store is a beloved landmark in Dublin, Ireland. Located at O’Connell Street since 1853, it has become one of the most popular shopping destinations for locals and tourists alike. With over 25 departments, Clery’s offered everything from clothing and footwear to furniture, home accessories and beauty products. The store’s iconic clock tower, which stands at over 68 meters tall, is a recognizable landmark in Dublin and the perfect photo opportunity for visitors.
Closure and redevelopment
Clerys, a Dublin-based department store, was placed into receivership in September 2012. Paul McCann and Michael McAteer of Grant Thornton were appointed as the store’s receivers and expressed hope that its future could be secured.
However, in June 2015 Kieran Wallace and Eamonn Richardson were appointed joint provisional liquidators of OSC Operations Limited, which was trading as Clerys. The company ceased to trade with immediate effect and all staff were given just 30 minutes’ notice to pack up and leave, some of whom had worked there for over 40 years.
The store itself sold for €29 million, with the Natrium Investment Group taking the lead in the purchase. Paddy McKillen’s Oakmount and Europa Capital then joined in the redevelopment of the site, with architects Henry J Lyons trying to keep as much of the original design (based on Selfridges’ in London) as possible.
The project was renamed ‘Clerys Quarter’, and will transform the department store into a mixed-use development of offices, retail and leisure. Press Up Entertainment (run by Paddy McKillen Jr and Matt Ryan) will be opening a boutique hotel called The Clery, with the hotel also including a rooftop bar and a restaurant.
The €29 million redevelopment is being funded entirely through private investment, meaning that Clerys can continue to be part of the cultural landscape of Dublin. It is hoped that this will be a success story, and proof that with the right investment and dedication it is possible to breathe new life into old stores.
The Spire of Dublin
The Spire of Dublin, also known as the ‘Monument of Light’, is a striking steel sculpture located in the heart of Dublin city centre. Standing at 120 metres tall, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ireland’s capital city. The monument is composed of 8 stainless-steel cone sections arranged around a central core and was erected in 2003 to commemorate the millennium. It stands at the centre of O’Connell Street, the long and straight thoroughfare that links north and south Dublin.
The Spire is one of Dublin’s most recognisable sights, with its modern design standing in stark contrast to many of the city’s traditional Georgian buildings. At night it is illuminated by blue floodlights, creating a beautiful spectacle that can be seen from miles away. Over the years it has become an important symbol of Dublin and its people, representing not only the city’s modernity but also its rich history and cultural heritage.
Visitors to Dublin should be sure to take a moment to admire this magnificent piece of architecture. Whether in the day or at night, it is a truly memorable sight that should not be missed. With its many interpretations and associations, the Spire of Dublin stands as an enduring reminder of Dublin’s past, present and future.
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