Seeing The Spire
The Spire in Dublin, also known as the Monument of Light, is a massive needle shaped steel sculpture located in the city center on O'Connell Street. It holds a place in the local consciousness similar to what the Eiffel Tower represents for the French.
A needle fallen from the sky
Standing 120 meters tall, this minimalist contemporary art piece was completed in 2003 by Ian Ritchie. It ranks as the tallest sculpture in the world with a tip that stays illuminated after dark. The project was intended to revitalize the street, serving as a symbol of the city rising from the ground. Before this, the Nelson Pillar stood on this exact spot until it was destroyed in 1966 by an IRA bombing. The Nelson Pillar had commemorated the Battle of Trafalgar. Seeking to move past that tragic event and distance themselves from an unpopular historical figure, the government removed the remains of the monument entirely. The goal was to reclaim the character of what is often cited as the widest avenue in Europe, while renovating an area that had fallen into disrepair.
A polarizing landmark
When you walk down O'Connell Street, you cannot miss it. It stands there, planted in the middle of the thoroughfare. Locals will tell you that it is a love it or hate it kind of sight. In fact, The Spire of Dublin has appeared on lists ranking the most ridiculous constructions in the world. Despite that, it remains the most photographed monument in the city. It also serves as a reliable navigational landmark in the city center because it is impossible to overlook. The base of the sculpture measures 3 meters in diameter, tapering to just 15cm at the very top. It is constructed from eight hollow stainless steel tubes fitted together using a telescopic system. This modern monument cost 4 million EUR (about $4.3 million) to construct and continues to stir up conversation today.
This metal tower is impressive and worth a little detour if you are in the area. Go to the base, look up, and the feeling that it touches the sky is real!