The Campanile

Sir Charles Lanyon (sculpture by Thomas Kirk)

1853

Granite, cast-iron and Portland stone

Trinity College, Dublin

Centre of the near end of Library Square

Other Views

Campanile from the side

Detail of campanile

Photograph, caption, and commentary by Jacqueline Banerjee, 2009.

[You may use this image without prior permission for any scholarly or educational purpose as long as you (1) credit the photographer and (2) link your document to this URL.]

Originally intended to be linked to the buildings on either side by an "arcaded screen," the campanile has been described as a "skilful if lacklustre party piece" (Casey 399-400). However, it is a popular sight, often used pictorially to represent Trinity College, and many might agree with an earlier verdict that it is a "singularly attractive work of unique design" (Dixon 212). The belfry is "richly detailed, a cylindrical chamber encircled by engaged Corinthian columns and pierced by tall round-headed openings with cast-iron traceried grilles" (Casey 400). The four figures at the base of the belfry, sculpted by Thomas Kirk (1781-1845), represent Divinity (seen holding a cross), Science, Medicine and Law.

References

Casey, Christine. The Buildings of Ireland: Dublin. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2005.

Dixon, MacNeile W. Trinity College, Dublin. London: F. E. Robinson, 1902. Available in the Internet Archives, here.

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Last modified 28 July 2009