Discover Dublin’s Literary and Pub Scene: A Walking Tour in Ireland

Discovering the Literary and Pub Scene in Dublin

When it comes to the attractions of Dublin, two things stand out: literature and pubs. These two elements are intertwined, as pubs often serve as meeting places for literary conversations and musical performances.

A must-visit for literature enthusiasts is the MoLI (Museum of Irish Literature), located near St Stephen’s Green. While the exhibits may not be particularly valuable, the museum houses the first copy of Ulysses, which is preserved in a glass case as a literary oracle. The ground floor also features temporary exhibits, such as the current homage to Brendan Behan.

Some of Behan’s favorite pubs still exist in the city, and one of the most legitimate is McDaid’s. This small establishment off Grafton Street has been around for over 200 years and is frequented by literary figures like Behan, Flann O’Brien, and Patrick Kavanagh.

Trinity College is another literary landmark, with the Bank of Ireland featuring a permanent exhibition on the life of Seamus Heaney. The National Library also has a permanent exhibit on literary giant WB Yeats and the influences that shaped his writings.

The statue of Patrick Kavanagh seated on a bench by the Grand Canal is a tribute to his poetry and the times he spent in the area. Colm Tóibín’s Dublin house is also located in the area, which he often frequents.

The General Post Office is a noteworthy landmark, linked to the 1916 Easter Rising, a pivotal event in Irish history. The Glasnevin cemetery is another key location for literary and historical personalities, such as Gerard Manley Hopkins, Behan, and Maud Gonne.

In Dublin, literature and pubs are inseparable, and a visit to these landmarks is essential for those who wish to explore the city’s deep cultural roots.

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