The Famine Memorial Dublin
A powerful reminder
Most of the works of art I have discovered in Dublin have been by pure chance. The same thing happened to me with The Famine Memorial as with the Peace Tree in St. Annes Park (check it out in this post). I discovered it unintentionally while walking through the city, along the Liffey on the Custom House Quays. I was shocked to discover such a powerful work of art. What makes this piece unique is that it does not hide, it shows the crudeness of a historical episode that marked Ireland without ornaments or decorations in the middle of the street while making itself stand out among today's industrialized world. The work is composed of five life-size human figures, malnourished, and dressed in rags. Their facial expressions paint their pain, they are looking into a void, bewildered. Famine (its official name) was created by Rowan Gillespie to commemorate the victims of the Great Irish Famine. It was unveiled to the city of Dublin in 1997. After some investigation, I discovered that Famine represents the Irish population walking towards boats in order to emigrate and escape the famine that devastated the country in the 19th century.
It is located in the middle of the street and it does not cost money to visit so in my opinion it is a must-see work of art if one visits the city of Dublin, not only for the careful execution of the sculptures but also for the historical importance they have.
About this spot
Custom House Quay
€
free
Find your way with 112 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Dublin
Beanhive Coffee
Art in a cup
"Beanhive Coffee" in Dublin creates art in the coffee! Forget the latte art you knew - these guys take it to another level. Great breakfast, too.
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Artisan Brew Academy
BYOB - BREW your own beer
"Artisan Brew Academy" in Dublin, close to the Guinness factory, is an actual academy that teaches people how to make beer at home!
by
Ginger
Greenidge
Freebird Records
Hidden in plain sight
"Freebird Records" isn't just a secret music shop! It's also a book store with all kinds of second-hand books at a good price & cool vintage stuff...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Hot Donut
Artisanal array of flavours
"The Hot Donut" sets itself apart because here donuts are homemade and freshly baked daily with natural and fruit-inspired flavors.
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Marlay Park
For a relaxing picnic day
"Marlay Park", located in Dún Laoghaire in Dublin, is a place I like to go to when I feel like taking a long walk in a natural environment...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Govinda's
Empathy on a plate
"Govinda's" is a perfect example of altruistic cuisine made reality. It's a restaurant run by Hare Krishnas who make hearty vegan & vegetarian food!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Needful Things
For the nostalgic-hearted
"Needful Things" in Dublin is an antique, collectibles and second-hand book store that's full of soul! Film buffs will especially love it...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Peace Tree
An eternal cypress
"The Peace Tree", also known by the locals as The Tree Of Life, is an impressive sculpture located in Raheny in Dublin that represents local animals...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The National Botanical Gardens
Oasis in the city
"The National Botanical Gardens" in Dublin is one of my favorite places. I love the greenhouses, especially the Victoria Waterlily House...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Griffith Avenue
The neverending tree-hall
"Griffith Avenue" in Dublin is the longest purely residential tree-lined avenue in Europe. I love having long walks here - especially in autumn!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Grand Canal
For enjoyable walks
"The Grand Canal" is the part of Dublin I like to go to discover little bridges, cafés and just quiet spots with benches next to the water...
by
Alina
Ecke
Heading to Dublin?
112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Dublin?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 112 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Dublin
Get to know our other Spotters from Dublin
As featured on:
