Phoenix Park

Book excerpt: "Phoenix Park, one of the biggest enclosed parks in the world, provides a breath of fresh air amid the urban sprawl of modern Dublin. Brendan Nolan's comprehensive guide to Phoenix Park covers its origins and history, buildings and monuments, wildlife, literary associations, military use and sports, and even outlines some self-guided walks for the leisurely stroller to take. The author provides detailed histories and descriptions of park landmarks, including Dublin Zoo, Aras an Uachtarain, Farmleigh, Ashtown Castle, the American Ambassador's Residence, Garda Headquarters, and more. He touches on such historical events as the infamous murders of 1882, the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1979, the Irish soccer teams' homecomings, and the Nurse Gargan murder. This book is of interest to visitors and Dubliners alike, and to anyone interested in this most historic and scenic park."--BOOK JACKET.