July 30, 2013–Dublin Sightseeing Bus (2 of 2)

Edward is happy to find “Lord Edward” street which he claims as his own.

Below, Christchurch Cathedral said to contain relics of St Patrick. Interestingly, the largest cathedrals in Dublin are actually Anglican/Protestant cathedrals because the Irish were not allowed to build catholic cathedrals under English rule. It was only after Irish independence that catholic cathedrals began to appear.

Below, St Patrick Cathedral in Dublin. Also, surprisingly, Anglican.

Below, scenes of the Guinness Brewery in Dublin. It was originally on the outskirts of the city and occupies 64 acres. The city has now grown around it. Arthur Guinness was way ahead of this time in the treatment of his workers. He provided housing, schools, daycare and medical care as a part of their employment. At one time there were 3,500 workers at the brewery, however, today there are less than 900 due to modern automation.  Guinness also has its own backup power plant.  In a power outage in Dublin when it is turned on there is free electricity within 5 miles radius.

Above, the original entrance gate to Guinness. It was begun in 1759 and every year the current year is repainted in the panel on the right that reads 2013. Below, more scenes of Dublin from our open top sightseeing bus.

Left, the Irish War Memorial that stands opposite the presidential house, the official residence of the President of Ireland.

Left, the backside of the Guinness plant from the Liffey River. Below, the Jameson Irish Whiskey distillery in Dublin.

At one of our favorite pubs, The Merchant Arch, resting from our tour and listening to some fine Irish music.

We were going to listen for an hour or so, but we ended up staying until after 11:00pm.