Richard Robinson

First Baron Rokeby.

Spent the day in the City of Armagh where I attended a civic reception this morning in the Bishop’s Palace with the group I travelled with. It was 20 years ago this year that Bertie Ahern and David Trimble met in that same room to foster good North/South relations.

We then headed to the Planetarium where we were shown a trailer of the specially made film to celebrate 50 years since moon landing. It was awesome and they are having many events around July to mark this anniversary. The Director Michael Burton addressed the group and he was bouncing around with enthusiasm about the forthcoming events. The Armagh Planetarium is a must see.

Next on our tour was a visit to St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral where we were given a fascinating guided tour by the charming and knowledgeable Rev Gregory Dunstan. Then onto the Robinson Library where amongst other antiquities we were shown a first edition copy of Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels.

We then enjoyed a short walk through the Georgian Mall to a restaurant for 3 course meal before getting the bus back to Newry rail station for the Dublin Train.

Armagh is a fascinating place. It is steeped in history that is colourful and interesting and I will have to return soon.

If you are interested in reading further


Armagh Bishop’s Palace

http://curiousireland.ie/bishops-palace-armagh-city-co-armagh-1770/


Planetarium

https://armagh.ac.uk/onegiantleap.php


Bovedy Meteorite

https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/40-years-since-the-sky-fell-on-ulster-1-1884295/amp


Robinsons Library

http://armaghrobinsonlibrary.co.uk/wp/