Temple Bar in Dublin: Must-See Cultural Quarter
Cobbled streets, live music and the buzz of cafes and pubs alike give the streets of Temple Bar in Dublin, the city’s cultural quarter, an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. With first records of the area arising in the late-1700s, Temple Bar’s riverside location has brought with it a tide of artists, trades and merry-makers.
While music lovers today flock to Temple Bar’s central square for street performances, few may realize that in nearby Fishamble Street, composer George Frideric Handel debuted his masterwork “Messiah,” including the famous “Hallelujah” chorus in 1742. Further strengthening this historical performance, the event was produced by the dean of nearby St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Jonathan Swift.
Despite its early and illustrious beginnings, by the 1960s, the area had fallen into decay. By the 1980s, the Irish government’s transport company announced plans to demolish the quarter and build a bus terminus in its place. Before demolition could begin, Temple Bar’s buildings were leased to local artists, galleries and shops – reviving the area and inspiring Dublin residents to protest the construction plans. By 1991, the transport plans were scrapped and Temple Bar was designated as Dublin’s cultural quarter. Through government funding and the establishment of a cultural trust, Temple Bar returned to popularity and today is a first stop for many visitors to the city center.
In the years since its revival, Temple Bar has held fast to its reputation for art, culture and community. Locals and tourists alike flock here to take in summer outdoor movie screenings in neighboring Meetinghouse Square, view photography exhibitions and open galleries or sample the best of small food-producers, books and crafts in regular outdoor markets.
With restaurants, art exhibits, theatre and so much more, Temple Bar continues to delight as a must-see destination.
Posted on Mar 8, 2011 by Bridget Reilly
