Irish Funerals, Wakes and the Stories of Glasnevin Cemetery
High crosses at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin
Death is a universal ending to life. But cultures around the world treat it differently. And I have been fascinated with how it is dealt with in Ireland.
Like many countries, it is celebrated in style. That goes for the formal funerals that pay tribute to a life well-lived and to the wakes that are far from formal and go well into the wee hours. It’s in a wake, where you hear the stories of how a life was well-lived, and where it is celebrated in unmistakable Irish style.
Death is celebrated and it’s everywhere.
Glasnevin in Dublin
The cemeteries in Ireland are magnificent. The high crosses, the gravestones dating back thousands of years and the surrounding atmosphere. There are cemeteries in every community in Ireland. It shows how each community honours their own.
Of course there are huge graveyards, like Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, where many of Ireland’s notable are buried. From Daniel O’Connell…..
to Michael Collins. But there are 1.5 million souls resting there.
So the great memorable names are all alongside souls of 25 different religions and some of no religion at all.
And right next door, you’ll find another historic spot. It’s callecd the Gravediggers Bar.
The Gravedigger’s Bar across a fence from Glasnevin
If you have an interest in Ireland’s real history, you can learn a lot of Irish history. Tour guides are pleased to tell you the important stories.
And right next door you’ll find the famous Gravediggers Bar. Okay, it is a bit spooky to walk into anytime of day. If the sun is out you’ll see those streams of light with dust in them. If not, it’s just dusty.
Both are well worth the trip. Both have great stories and some amazing perspective on history.
The Gravedigger’s Bar is a must see if you go to Glasnevin.
Hear it all in Episode 37 of Erin’s Isle. Just click the audio bar at the top of this post.