It was about 3 miles there by foot, and three miles back, and that’s excluding the times I got lost and had to retrace my steps but it was well worth the visit that had been encouraged by my host.
Glasnevin Cemetery is not old by European standards, having first opened in the early 1800s, but it is significant as a burial place for so many people who were key figures in shaping modern Ireland’s history and culture. It remains an active burial place open to people of all and no religions.
It reminded me of Boston’s Forest Hills and Mount Auburn Cemeteries, with their beautiful and poignant statuary, and a similar commitment to provide current generations access to the history and legacies of those buried through lively tours, books and other media.
My time was limited but I was able to shadow a tour long enough to realize that if I am able to return one day I will schedule time to take the formal tour with one of the knowledgeable guides and then visit the neighboring Botanical Gardens.
Though I chose to walk, public transportation is available. You can learn more about the cemetery, its museum, genealogical services and more via this link: https://www.glasnevinmuseum.ie/
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