Nelson's Pillar was the monument blown up in Dublin. This iconic structure, dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson, stood in the heart of the city for over a century and a half before its destruction in 1966.
What Monument Was Blown Up in Dublin?
The monument that was blown up in Dublin was Nelson's Pillar, a prominent landmark located on O'Connell Street (then Sackville Street). Built to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson and his victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, the pillar became a symbol of British imperial presence in Ireland. Its destruction marked a significant event in modern Irish history.
Key Details of Nelson's Pillar
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Monument | Nelson's Pillar |
| Groundbreaking | 15 February 1808 |
| Opening | 21 October 1809 |
| Client | Dublin Corporation |
| Destroyed | 8 and 14 March 1966 |
The Destruction of Nelson's Pillar
The monument met its end in two stages in March 1966, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Easter Rising.
- First Explosion: In the early hours of March 8, 1966, a bomb exploded at the base of Nelson's Pillar. This blast, widely believed to have been carried out by republicans, severely damaged the upper portion of the pillar, sending the statue of Nelson crashing to the ground.
- Second Stage Demolition: The remainder of the pillar, deemed unstable and a public hazard, was subsequently brought down by the Irish Army six days later, on March 14, 1966, using controlled explosives.
The remains of the pillar and statue were eventually removed, and the site remained empty for many years. Today, the Spire of Dublin stands roughly in the same location where Nelson's Pillar once stood, serving as a modern landmark.
For more information, you can visit the Nelson's Pillar Wikipedia page.
