Molly Malone Statue
Suffolk Street, Dublin, Dublin, D02 KX03
The bronze Molly Malone Statue commemorates the young woman featured in the local ballad, 'Cockles and Mussels'. As the song goes, this beautiful woman plied her trade as a fishmonger through the streets where her statue now rests, until she suddenly died of a fever. As a nod to the folk song, a statue was erected on the corner of Grafton and Suffolk streets and unveiled at the 1988 Dublin Millennium celebrations.This tune has been adopted as Dublin's unofficial anthem, boosting this heroine to eternal fame. Though there is debate as to whether or not a Molly Malone like the one in the song ever existed, she is real to the people of Dublin and is remembered both in song as well as on June 13, National Molly Malone Day. The statue also acts as a popular rendezvous spot for groups as the beautiful bosomy woman with her cart cannot be missed.
The Basics
The statue of Molly in a long dress with her cart is a popular meeting point for groups in central Dublin at the corner of Grafton Street and Suffolk Street. The folk song that tells her story is an unofficial Dublin anthem and she is celebrated each year on June 13, National Molly Malone Day. While there is some debate as to whether or not Molly Malone is a true historic figure, the statue remains a beloved piece of public art. It is included in the itineraries of several walking tours in Dublin.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Grafton Street is famous for its buskers, or amateur musicians; bring a few coins to support the performances.
- The Molly Malone statue is located at the end of pedestrianized Grafton Street and is best reached on foot.
- The statue does not have any barriers around it and is a great place for photos.
How to Get There
The Molly Malone statue is located on the south side of the River Liffey at the corner of Grafton Street and Suffolk Street. It is easy to reach via public transportation; take the LUAS tram to the St. Stephen’s Green stop or bus to Trinity College. The statue is near several popular Dublin landmarks including Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, and the National Gallery of Ireland.
When to Get There
It is possible to visit the statue at any time of day or year. The area around the statue is busiest on Saturday and Sundays, when Grafton Street fills up with shoppers and buskers. This section of Dublin is particularly pretty during the holiday season when Grafton Street is decked out in festive lights.
As Seen on TV
Visitors to Dublin may be familiar with the Molly Malone statue; it is featured prominently in one of the most famous Christmas advertisements by the Guinness Brewery. The commercial shows several Dublin landmarks quiet at midnight under a light snowfall. The Molly Malone statue is seen covered in a light dusting of snow.
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