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
The Ramen Bar
Authentic Japanese cuisine
I have visited a lot of different restaurants in Dublin, and I certainly have my favorites, but for sure "The Ramen Bar" is my all-time most cherished!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
The Tram Café
All aboard!
"The Tram Café" in Dublin City is the perfect example of a great idea that came alive in the most elegant, beautiful way. This tram has really been around!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Visitor Centre of Phoenix Park
Learn and walk
The "Visitor Centre of Phoenix Park" in Dublin reveals the secrets of one of the largest parks in Europe, unknown to most casual walkers!
by
Alina
Ecke
Blackbird
Craft beers by candlelight
"Blackbird" in Dublin is a dimly lit, dive bar delight. Whenever I'm in the area, I always try to stop here for a drink - it's always 5 o'clock somewhere!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Farmleigh House
Discover Irish State guest house
"Farmleigh House" in Dublin was built in the late 18th century and was home to the Guinness family. It's accessible from Phoenix Park. Such a discovery!
by
Alina
Ecke
Irish Film Institute
Hangout spot for film lovers
The "Irish Film Institute" in Dublin looks strange - the good kind. Come discover Irish film here. Personally, I love the beer garden out back...
by
Ginger
Greenidge
Admiral
Eastern European food at its best
"Admiral" is a true yacht spot in the center of Dublin, a nautical-themed restaurant with delicious Eastern European and Russian dishes!
by
Ginger
Greenidge
Killiney Hill Park
A park walk with views
"Killiney Hill Park" is one of the best destinations you could pick when looking for a not-so-tiring hike in Dublin, just 20 minutes outside the city!
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Memorial to Human Rights Defenders
The silenced
"Memorial to Human Rights Defenders" by studio Grafton Architects is a hidden gem of an art piece in Dublin, a true must-see for art lovers...
by
Daiana
Andreea Nagy Deac
Heading to Dublin?
112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 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:
