The Book Of Kells, A Medieval Masterpiece

A Manuscript Page From The Book Of Kells

     The Dark Ages were a time of turbulence and hardship for Europe.  Be it The Plague killing thousands of people or terrifying vikings pillaging villages and monasteries throughout the land.  It was a very difficult time for for these people and for the growth of artistic creativity.  One of the few bright spots for the artistic world during this age was the Illuminated Manuscripts.  These manuscripts were painstakingly designed by monks in dark, candlelit monasteries throughout Europe.  Of these elegant handwritten documents, The Book of Kells is without a doubt the most impressive of these Medieval masterpieces.

     The next time you are in Dublin, Ireland, head to The Trinity College Library to see their elaborate exhibit on Medieval Manuscripts.  Here you can actually see the Book of Kells first hand.  In 1953, the curators of the library separated the book into four separate pieces based on the four gospels they possess. This was done so that the library could display four pages at a time.  As you approach the display case, you will have the opportunity to see two pages of elegant text as well as two cover pages.  These pages are switched out on a regular basis. This way the public can view more of this legendary book. 

     So you maybe wondering why is this book so special?  Well, it all started back in 561 A.D. in Iona, Scotland.  Here a collection of monks built a very isolated monastery, in hopes of developing a closer relationship to God.  They would spend night and day worshiping God through prayer and peaceful meditation.  One other way that these monks would show their devotion to the most high is by laboriously copying bibles.  This process was extremely time consuming and took years to perfect.  Remember, The Gutenberg Bible, the first printed book was not made until 1439.  Thus, this handcrafted method was the only way for the word of God to be spread.  These books, eventually took on an artistic quality as the monks created more and more of them.  This particular book was eventually moved to Ireland in 806 A.D. when viking raiders ransacked the island and killed 68 monks.  The book eventually found it's final resting place at Trinity College in the mid 19th century.  So, as you could imagine, besides being an artistic treasure, a book this old is exceptionally rare and just so precious.

     Besides the beautiful Book of Kells, The Trinity College Library also has The Book of Armagh on display.  This is a copy of the four Gospels from The New Testament, as well as "The Confessions of St. Patrick".  It recounts the life and times of St. Patrick as he dictated them to the bishop of Armagh in 807 A.D.  The library also possess two more incredible treasures.  They have the oldest harp in Ireland.  This massive oak instrument dates back to the 15th century and is the national symbol of Ireland.  You may have noticed a depiction of this gorgeous harp on the Guinness logo. Lastly, they have one of the original copies of The 1916 Proclamation of The Irish Republic.  This is essentially Ireland's version of The Declaration of Independence and it was pivotal in starting the Irish Revolution from Great Brittan.

     So the next time you are on "The Emerald Isle", checkout The Trinity College Library and their medieval masterpieces, including The Book of Kells.

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Luck Of The Irish! Not So Much!

     What's the worst thing that has ever happened to you on vacation?  Did you get your purse stolen or crash your rental car?  Over the years I have been very fortunate in my travels, I have avoided having my baggage lost and my wallet stolen.  The worst thing that has happened to me was getting trapped in my hotel room.  Yes, I once was trapped in a hotel room in Dublin for over two hours.  What could be worst than finally getting to fulfill that lifelong dream of seeing Ireland and yet being stuck in a hotel room?  Talk about being so close and yet so far away!

     I should explain how me and my lovely wife ended up is such a predicament.  Upon arriving in Dublin, we headed straight from the airport to our hotel.  When we finally arrived at our hotel, we were exhausted from our long flight and yet extremely anxious to see this great city.  We checked in and headed to our room.  The room was on the third floor and located on an alcove.  This seemed like an auspicious blessing.  No neighbors on either side, we were in for a very quiet stay.  So we get into the room and start to unpack.  We quickly put away our stuff and freshen up for a night on the town in the rambuncious Temple Bar District.  As we were about to leave the room, when I realize that I could not find the key.  I ask my wife if she had seen it.  Nope, I was the last one with it.  So I figure that it had to be in the room somewhere.  We started to frantically look for that stupid little key.  After about ten minutes, I gave up and told my wife that I am going down to the reception desk and tell the clerk that we had lost the key.  As I attempt to leave, I come to a horrible realization that the door would not open.

     It turned out that my wife had locked the door with the key still in the lock.  I tried and tried to get that forsaken lock to turn but to no avail.  So I decided to call the front desk and see if they could send someone up and liberate us.  How embarrassing!  So I ask my wife, "Where's the phone?"  It turned out that after a thorough search of the room, that we did not have a phone in the room.  And to make matters worst, neither of us had cell phone reception in the room.

     So I head over to the one window in the room and look out.  The room was along the back of the building overlooking an alleyway with a three story drop to the asphalt below.  There was no way I could climb out without seriously hurting myself.  So we start to pound on the door and screamed for help.  That's when it hit me that there are no guests on either side of our room.  No one could hear our pleas for help.  All I could think about was how could this possibly be happening.  What an absolute nightmare!

     So after ten minutes of shear panic and frustration, we came to our senses and assessed the situation.  I happen to notice that you could see the ever so slight space between the door and the door jam.  After scouring the room for any item that could fit in that thin space, I found a coat hanger.  So after I decide to embrace my inner MacGuyver, I slide the hanger into the crack and found the piece of the lock that went into the door jam.  With some awe inspired effort, I pried the lock back into the door and consequentially, the door popped open.  We were finally free!  I gave my wife the biggest of hugs and grabbed that key out of that accursed lock.  It turned out, that this horrible ordeal had lasted about two hours, but it seemed to last for a lifetime.  We hustled down to The Temple Bar District and had a magnificent night after all.  Now, every time we stay in a hotel room, we check for the key before we lock the door.  So was it lucky that I was able to get that door open?  Without a doubt, it sure was.  Maybe it was my Irish ancestors looking out for me that night or maybe God truly does look out for fools?  Who knows?  Either way, always keep a close eye on that room key, so you don't end up in a predicament like the one I was in.

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Cheers To The Temple Bar District!

The Temple Bar in Dublin, Ireland

     Typically, when people envision Ireland, they think about rolling green hills, or charming castles slowly crumbling with time.  how about a warm and gleeful pub full of traditional Irish music and pint after pint of outstanding ale.  For many, this is the most authentic way to experience "The Emerald Isle" and its charismatic people, and what better place to experience this, than The Temple Bar District.

     The Temple Bar is a rowdy, rambuncious and fun loving neighborhood located in the heart of Dublin. It is a treasure trove of great bars, good eateries, and fascinating people.  The place started out as an unloading dock for the city, but as tidal mud flats were reclaimed from by the city it became a bohemian style neighborhood.  This influx of artistic individuals with unique perspectives lead to the development of theaters, art galleries, trendy restaurants, and above all else, lively pubs. 

     If you are looking for that quintessential Irish experience then go bar hoping in The Temple Bar.  If you go earlier in the evening than you will discover that these pubs will be very subdued and thus you will simply not have the same experience as you will have later in the evening.  To truly get the genuine experience than start out after 8 P.M.  Now, if you are not into the partying scene or simply want to save a few euros, than hit the early bird specials.  Many of these wonderful restaurants and pubs in The Temple Bar offer buy one get one frees or three course menu's at bargain rates.  So you can save some decent money on an exceptional meal by eating early.  Now if you are interested in seeing Dublin at its prime than start strolling down Fleet Street at around around eight and see which of the plethora of pubs are starting to gear up.  You will quickly notice that many of the bars will have musicians playing great and authentic tunes.  These are not your typically payed musicians, but rather locals who have come down for a good time and a few pints for themselves.  Once you find a pub that seems to catch your fancy than you have another big decision to make.  For the wallflower types, you may want to grab a table and sit back and let the real Ireland unfold before your eyes.  Now if you are more of the outgoing type, than stand at the bar.  Here locals will enthusiastically approach you and start up the most interesting of conversations.  What a magnificent way to get a new perspective on a fascinating culture while savoring a full bodied Guinness.  Who knows, you may even build some lasting friendships. 

     So no mater if you are a wallflower or a social butterfly, you should head down to a pub in The Temple Bar District for some delicious food, exceptional libations, incredible live entertainment, and great company, as you absorb the culture of this endearing land.

For some great pub music check out this link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UY11m0d3Bjs

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Walking In The Footsteps Of Greatness: Saint Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patrick's Cathedral

     Ireland is truly a land of both natural and man made beauty.  Be it those enigmatic glens that seem to be splashed with every shade of green that imagination could ever conjure up, to those formidable churches that suduley exude the charm and grace of the centuries that they have endured through.  This island has a raw beauty that will completely captivate your mind and overwhelm the senses.  One of these truly memorable houses of worship has to be St. Patrick's Cathedral. 

     This elegant and imposing structure is a corner stone of Dublin and is simply a must see for travelers.  This Gothic style church was constructed in the 13th century and has since been one of the major religious focal points for Dubliners.  So why is this magnificent church named after Ireland's legendary saint?  Well, in 431 A.D. St. Patrick returned to Ireland after years of religious study.  He came back to spread Christianity to the masses as well as to root out the evil that was running rampant throughout the land.  The church was built over the site where St. Patrick baptised hundred of pagans.  In fact, you can still see the hand carved stone that covered the well from which he performed these baptisms in.  This large stone is adorned with the iconic Celtic cross and is truly a thing to behold.  During The Reformation, this church became a house of worship for The Anglican Church and is still practiced here today.  In the 1600's, Oliver Cromwell and his troops used this beautiful house of worship as a horse stable.  He was Calvinistic and had very little regard for the Anglicans.  As you enter the building, look to the right side of the nave and you can see Jonathan Swift's grave.  In the 1800's, he was the Dean of the cathedral, but most people know him from his famous novel Gulliver's Travels. Since Swift's time, the place has been one of the most popular churches in Dublin and is the place to be on Sunday mornings.

The Stone That Covered St. Patrick's Well

     This elegant cathedral has seen it's fair share of history and the major players that have shaped this extraordinary land.  So if you want to see a place that was at the forefront of Irish history, or you just want to see a truly remarkable church, than come to Saint Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin.

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To my dedicated fan's,
     Did you notice that this article was published early?  It is meant to be a supplement for the one that should be published on Saturday the 16th.  I am truly sorry if this has created any confusion or problems, but I will be in Kenya for the better part of next week and Internet access can be very sparse in this part of the world.  I will be there gathering more fun and interesting tales for the blog.  I should be able to resume our usual publishing cycle on Saturday the 23rd. Well, may your travels be memorable and always full of joy!
Christopher Morrison
Writer and Editor of
The Thrifty Adventurer

Bonus Article:The Sistine Chapel

"The Creation Of Adam" by Michelangelo

     As the world holds their collective breaths in anticipation of the selection of a new Pope, I cannot help but reminisce about how absolutely beautiful the venue they will choose him in is.  The Sistine Chapel has to be one of the most incredible place on Earth.  It was constructed in 1508, with the sole intention to be the Pope's personal chapel as well as the location where the College of Cardinals would pick the future leader of "The Holy Sea".  This chapel is about 5,900 square feet and is elegantly adorned with completely amazing works of art.  Most people are familiar with the iconic "Creation of Adam" but did you know that the entire ceiling is covered with equally spectacular frescoes by Michelangelo?  These panels chronicle the major events from "The Old Testament" as well as images of the major players in it.  This intricately decorated room is also home to Michelangelo's monster piece, "The Last Judgement".  This massive fresco is located directly behind the chapel's alter and encompasses the entire wall of this stunning tribute to the most high.  "The Last Judgement" consists of hundreds of saints descending from Heaven to heroically do God's bidding.  You can clearly see the influence of science, especially anatomy on Michelangelo's work, by the minute details of the muscular bodies of the saints.  As a sidebar, if you look to the lower right of the colossal work, you will see St. Bartholomew.  This poor saint was skinned alive on his way to martyrdom and if you look carefully, you can see Michelangelo's face on the skin that he is holding.

     So, if you ever have the opportunity to visit Vatican City, than make an effort to see this gorgeous chapel for yourself and see why it is used for inspiration to choose the spiritual leader of over a billion people.

"The Last Judgement" by Michelangelo

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Knives On A Plane

     It's official, the T.S.A has lost their minds!  For years, The Transportation Security Administration has banned passengers from bringing on small knives, mini baseball bats, hockey sticks and snow globes onto planes.  This has been a precaution to avoid another incident like September 11th.  Personally, I have felt that this was a tad extreme, but a necessary evil.  Who would want a tragedy like this to occur again.  So why on earth would these geniuses go back on these obvious discions.  Could it be the Sequester and the budget cuts that come with it or is it the fact that we haven't had a terrorist attack in years.  Either way, I feel that this is a major under sight by The United States Government to allow these changes.  First of all, they are allowing individuals to bring on blades, that are twice the length of the weapons that were used to take the three planes on 9/11.  Do we feel that terrorist have lowered their ambitions in the last twelve years.  As for the snow globe decision, why not allow an item with less then 3oz. of liquid onto a plane?  If you can bring on a bottle of aftershave, why not an adorable keepsake from Disney Land or New York City?  And lets not forget about those collectible baseball bats.  How many times does one get to see a true landmark like Wrigley Field or Fenway. For a baseball enthusiast, these are hollowed grounds and who wouldn't want to take home a memento from them.  Now you can.  T.S.A finally came to their senses and realized that a would be terrorist could never take over a plane with a 12 inch stick.  So maybe budget cuts can lead The U.S. government and it's various entities to some reasonable decisions, but they are truly taking a risk with this decision to allow knives on board a plane.

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Home Of "The Black Beauty"

The Guinness Storehouse

     When you think of Ireland, what comes to mind? Breath taking pastures and the most beautiful rolling green hills imaginable, how about four leafed shamrocks for good luck, or maybe a delectable plate of corned beef and cabbage. What about a pint of a good dark stout? Nothing epitomises Ireland more then the iconic Guinness. If you have not had the opportunity to savor this velvety textured, creamy, rich flavored beer then you are missing out on an absolutely memorable experience. Especially when tasted on the emerald isle, it does not travel well, and what better place to enjoy this beverage, then at it's birth place,The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.

      The first thing that you will notice when you arrive at The Guinness Storehouse is that this is not your typical brewery tour, it is an immersion into the world of Guinness. This sprawling exhibit consists of interactive displays on brewing, including how this iconic stout is made, video's of classic advertisements, cooperage demonstrations, how they make the barrels to store the freshly brewed Guinness, and of course The Gravity Bar. The Gravity Bar is the highest pub in Dublin, featuring spectacular 360 degree views of the city and simply an incredible place to savor a free pint of Guinness. Some might ask why all of the hype over an Irish beer? Besides the fact that Arthur Guinness started this company in 1759 and it has become one of the most successful corporations on the planet. In fact, over 10 million pints are consumed everyday. It is that Guinness is representative of the people of Ireland. It has become synonymous with good times, great company, and rich character; all of which the people of Ireland have prided themselves on and it is hard to miss when visiting this enchanting land.

 

So the next time your in Dublin, swing by a local pub or even better yet, The Guinness Storehouse and enjoy "The Black Beauty" that is Guinness.

www.guinness-storehouse.com

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Avoid Yellow Fever, See Your Doctor!

A Mosquito carrying Yellow Fever

     The other day I walked into my doctor's office and announced that I have arrived for my travel vaccinations.  The nurse looked at my chart and said "are you ready for this?"  I confidently replied "sure, what's a couple of shots!"  She exclaimed "sir you and your wife are scheduled for 13 shots!"  And I said to myself, "oh, the joys of traveling abroad."  I know this seems a tad extreme to get this many shots, but when traveling to remote corners of the world, you never can be too careful.

     I am currently preparing for an amazing adventure to East Africa.  A place full of incredible wildlife, diverse cultures, and exceptional beauty.  Yet, their are paroles as well.  Be it yellow fever, Malaria, Rift Valley Disease, Dengue, African Sleep Sickness, Typhoid, Diphtheria, Travelers Sickness and many more deadly illnesses that most people would truly want to avoid.  To do this, you must come prepared.  This means that you should check with your physician at least a month before you begin your memorable adventure.  This way he or she can make sure that you are up to date with your inoculations as well as prepare you for this upcoming journey.  Many medications will take a week or more to take an effect and give you the immunity needed to avoid these deadly maladies.  Also, a good physician can keep you up to speed with the latest information on epidemics that are running rampant in the part of the world that you plan on visiting.  This way you can go on the trip and be quite knowledgeable of the current situation.  You can also consult the CDC for the latest in travel health advisories.  Hopefully, these simple tips can help you stay healthy on your next trip abroad.

Center For Disease Control
http://www.cdc.gov/

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Great Itineraries: Dublin

A pub in The Temple Bar District

     Dublin, Ireland is one of the most charming cities that I have ever had the opportunity to visit.  The city is a collection of old churches, beautiful parks, and rambuncious taverns. If you enjoy architecture, then stroll through Trinity College and the adjacent Merrion Square to see the truly characteristic side of Dublin or if you adore history, then check out The Book of Kells at The Trinity College Library or see some incredible artifacts from Ireland's Celtic past at The National Museum.  Do not forget that Dublin is the home of Jameson Whiskey as well as the iconic Guinness Brewery.  These delicious libations have a way of fueling the jubilant atmosphere of those great pubs down in The Temple Bar District.  This is where you will see the most genuine side of the city.  The pubs are where you can meet and get to know the locals.  Enjoy a pint or two with them and you can gain a real sense of what Ireland is truly all about.




Dublin Castle

Day 1

• 8;30 A.M.     Stroll around the elegant grounds of St. Stephen's Green
• 9:00 A.M.     Experience the incredible architecture of Trinity College
• 9:30 A.M.     View the legendary Book of Kells at Trinity College Library
• 11:00 A.M.   See some amazing ancient artifacts in The National Museum
• 1:00 P.M.      Lunch
• 2:00 P.M.      Tour the former seat of power at Dublin Castle
• 4:00 P.M.      Learn how Ireland's most famous whiskey is crafted at The Jameson Distillery
• 7:00 P.M.      Diner in The Temple Bar District
• 9:00 P.M       Enjoy a pint and some local music at a pub in The Temple Bar District

Day 2

• 9:00 A.M.     Retrace the steps of Ireland's patron saint at St. Patrick's Cathedral
• 11:00 A.M.   View the most impressive church in all of Ireland at Christ Church Cathedral
• 1:00 P.M.      Lunch
• 2:00 P.M.      Learn about The Irish Rebellion at The Kilmainham Gaols
• 4:00 P.M.      Savor a pint at the highest bar in all of Dublin at The Guinness Storehouse
• 6:00 P.M.      Have another great and entertaining diner at The Temple                                                                                                     Bar District

Day 3

Take a day trip to either

• Cork and kiss The Blarney Stone
• Or revisit Celtic Ireland at Bru na Boinne
• Or see the scenic side of Ireland by arranging a trip to The Ring of Kerry

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Blarney Castle Or Why I Thought That Hanging Upside Down Over A Six Story Drop Was A Good Idea At The Time

Blarney Castle

     For a fun and relaxing day trip from Dublin head to Blarney Castle.  This famous Irish site is located just outside of the city of Cork and is just a two hour ride by train or a leisurely four hour drive by car.  When you arrive at the castle, the first thing you will notice, is the elegant park grounds.  Blarney Castle is located on some of the most picturesque scenery Ireland has to offer,with it's rolling green hills and a slow moving stream, it will immediately remind you of why you came to Ireland in the first place.  As for the castle, it is a massive fortified tower, which is about six stories tall and dates back to 1446.  Although it is currently unfurnished, and very much in disrepair, the place definitely has a charming quality about it.  In spite of it's condition, most travelers come to Blarney Castle to kiss it's infamous stone.  Legend has it, that if you kiss The Blarney Stone, you will forever be blessed with "the gift of gab".  Sounds easy enough, right?  First of all, you have to climb a six story medieval tower, which amounts to over 350 steps.  Once you make it to the top of this windy tower, you have to lean over backwards, over a three foot gap in the floor and smooch the  large stone.  You will have an attendant holding you, while you make this death defying act, but it is most certainly not for the faint of heart or those who are absolutely terrified of heights.  However, if falling to your untimely demise does not bother you, then this can be a lot of fun and the views from the top of the tower are absolutely amazing!

     Why all of this hype about a stone?  Well, according to legend, The Blarney Stone is a piece of The Stone of Scone, or the a piece of the royal thrown of Scotland.  It was originally from the Holy Land where it was Jacob's stone from the bible and later brought to Scotland during the crusades.  The stone was finally brought to it's resting place when Robert the Bruce gave it to Cormac Laidir MacCarthy as a reward for the support he gave him during the battle Bannockburn.  The Blarney Castle became famous when Queen Elizabeth of England asked the Lord of the castle for his loyalty.  Instead of committing his loyalty to a bunch of foreign invaders, he simply lavished the Queen with compliments.  She became so infuriated with these remarks, that she claimed that Lord Blarney was full of untruth.  Thus, the saying that someone was "full of Blarney" was created.

    So does the stone really work?  Well my wife will be the first to tell you that I never know when to keep my mouth shut.  So as for flapping my gums constantly, then I would whole heartily agree with with that, but as for gaining an elegance to my speech, well not so much.  However, for another aspiring traveler, who knows?

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March's Letter To The Readers

Enjoying a pint at The Gravity Bar in Dublin

     How can you not enjoy Saint Patrick's Day?  Green beer, emerald clad parades, fast footed dancers, corned beef and cabbage; there are just so many things that make this holiday great.  As an Irish American, well my father is Irish anyway, St. Patrick's Day has always held a special place in my heart.  So March's articles will be centered around "The Emerald Isle".  I will explain why I thought it was a good idea to hang upside down over a six story drop to kiss a stone.  We will enjoy a pint in the rambunctious and fun filled Temple Bar District, as well as retrace the steps of a legendary saint.  Finally, we will learn how Guinness, the national brew of Ireland is made.  Also, we will also continue our great itineraries series with a trip to one of the most absolutely charming cities in the world, Dublin.  So hopefully those Irish eye's are smiling upon you and may you always have a pleasant and enjoyable journey ahead.

Christopher Morrison
Writer and Editor of
The Thrifty Adventurer

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To my devoted readers,
     There will be some alterations to my publishing cycle this month.  I will be in Kenya conducting research for future articles and may not have the Internet access that I am accustomed to.  Sorry for the inconvenience, and thanks for your continued support!