My first weekday in Ireland was a long day, full of memorable sights that are known around the world. After an art lecture at Belvedere, we departed on a one mile walk to Croke Park, the third largest arena in all of Europe, and one that bears a special importance to the Irish. The site of Croke Park has played host to Gaelic Football and Hurling matches since 1884. At the beginning of the tour, we saw a twenty minute video of 2009’s title matches between Kilkenny and Tipperary in hurling, and Cork and Kerry in Gaelic football. Merely watching the video gave us all a sense of the excitement that takes hold of any of the fans spectating at one of these events or even watching one on the television. Other people in the audience from these counties were jawing at the screen and shouting at moments they remembered throughout the film. This solidified our sense of the significance that this stadium, and these sports have to the Irish. We then proceeded on a tour of the players’ lounge, where all of the furnishings were made in Ireland, and which showcased a half a million euro chandelier by Waterford. The chandelier was constructed of glowing-glass balls that symbolize all the counties of Ireland, (Hurling balls), and Gaelic Footballs. From the players’ lounge, we finally made it out to the pitch, and what a site it was. The pitch in total is 140 meters long by almost 90 meters wide, and hand mown three times per day. On top of this, it holds over 83,400 people.
Besides the astounding numbers, Croke Park is the sight of one of the many bloody Sundays, where the British fired on spectators who were completely unarmed. This was one of the many acts of violence during the Irish independence movement. However, in a recent historic match between Ireland and Britain, the crowd stood to applaud both sides. Clearly, this was an attempt to bridge the tensions that have existed for so many years prior. I cannot comprehend the importance that Croke park bears to the Irish, and now see why it is so iconic in their culture.
Our second trip was to The Book of Kells at Trinity College, an amazing book created by Irish monks on the island of Iona in the 9th century. Every day, a page of the book is turned to reveal another treasure. For you see, the true beauty of The Book of Kells exists not in the writing, but the incredible calligraphy and artistic value. The intricate designs must be viewed in person to gain an understanding of the true complexity.
What really amazed me is that this work of art was inscribed by teenagers no older that us! Today, the book was turned to a page in the gospel of John that illustrated the entombment of Jesus. It seemed fitting since the Easter season is upon us. After examining the book, we went upstairs to the vast library where pictures are not allowed. But if you want to catch a glimpse of this amazing hall, known as the Long Room, just pick up a copy of Star Wars Episode II: The Clone Wars. George Lucas actually filmed a portion of this library, and put it in his film (without permission) serving as a Jedi library. The current exhibit deals with medicine, as Trinity is celebrating its 300th year of practice.
The trip is going great so far, and I’ve had a chance to do so much already. I look forward to a great week ahead with the Fenlon’s, and even better times on the group excursions. Hopefully, this was interesting for all of the parents back at home, and I’m positive that my peers will stimulate your minds as much as I hope that I have in this post.
Regards From Ireland,
Trevor Schramn
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