Dublin Day 3 (June 24, 2009)

The day started with a bit of poetry reading on the steps at the Garden of Remembrance, followed by a brilliant display of traditional Irish dancing by Miss Allie (for those that missed the "Jam Sesh" the previous night).

We met up with John and he took us on a quick your down O'Connell Street, and then around the grounds of Christ Church Cathedral (above).

If you look closely at the cobblestones here in from of Christ Church Cathedral, you can see shapes and patterns. These are the outlines of a Viking dwelling that was uncovered here during an excavation. Neato, huh?

Dublin Castle.

I'm collecting what appears to be politically-charged graffiti (except for maybe the bottom one, which I just though was supposed to be funny - maybe). If anyone has a clue what these might refer to (aside from the obvious 'no bomb'), let me know.

Funny thing: At the end of our tour, we started asking John some "intelligent" questions, and guess what? I think he ended up liking us. Here are a few interesting things he said:

Referring to Dublin: "The Irish actually got this city built for nothing and kept it for themselves." 

He explained that by comparing the city's history to "The Three Little Pigs," with the Vikings, the Normans, and the British as the pigs, or the builders. Interesting, n'est-ce pas?

John also emphasized that American business interests in Ireland are actually supoorting Ireland economically: "54 American multi-national companies hold this country together."

He continued to say that most Irish support Obama's policies, but if Obama tries to bring multi-national companies home to boost the American economy, Ireland will be in "bad shape": "Ireland had 32 counties. America is the 33rd. Australia is the 34th."

Aside from the heavier stuff, we also found out John is pretty fookin' funny - example: "Women were put into the stocks for only one reason... talking too much. Unfortunately, there weren't enough stocks." 

Now don't go getting offended anyone, it was all in good fun (and with this guy, you have to appreciate the jokes when they come).

Outside St. Patrick's Cathedral eatin' some Fish n' Chips (John's recommendation).

Inside St. Patrick's Cathedral. ABSOLUTELY ASTOUNDING. If you don't believe me, check out the pics below.

I'm not a religious dude, but this place was truly moving.

Next we spent some time meandering/ laying in the grass at the St. Stephen's Green, probably one of the most beautiful public parks I've ever seen. I'll be going back there, so expect more photos later.

"Famine," a memorial sculpture at St. Stephen's Green.

Alrighty, that's all for now. About to head out in a few minutes to Kilmainham Jail, then off to a (literary, believe it or not) pub crawl tonight! 

Sláinte!