e Dalkey archive
During lockdown, a Dublin village made news on account of its Hollywood visitor. But there’s a lot more to Dalkey than Damon. MICHAEL DOHERTY casts a tourist’s eye on his neighbourhood
Located on the south Dublin coast between Dún Laoghaire and Killiney, Dalkey is a popular spot for tourists and daytrippers alike and with good reason. It has been (and continues to be) home to many notable writers and artists, including George Bernard Shaw, Maeve Binchy, Hugh Leonard, Neil Jordan and Bono; not to mention the temporary residence of a Hollywood star (of whom more anon).
You want history? Visit the Heritage Centre (situated in a Norman castle) and then check out the nearby 10th-Century church, a second 14th-Century castle and an island (Dalkey Island) whose rst occupants date back to the Mesolithic era and whose current inhabitants are a famous colony of wild goats.
You want culture? Come during (a normal) June and check out the Dalkey Book Festival, when writers and bibliophiles mingle in the many artisan eateries and watering holes (Finnegan’s, The Kings Inn, etc.) of the town. You want food? Check out the many ne restaurants in the area or time your arrival for August when the Dalkey Lobster Festival celebrates the king of crustaceans.
Dalkey’s coastal location o ers beautiful views, with both Bullock and Coliemore Harbours among the most visited locales. In recent times, however, the Matt Damon factor has come into e ect, with sightseers now adding the co ee shops the Boston actor frequented and even the supermarket where he bought his now-famous bag for life, to their sel e itinerary.
In truth, Matt Damon has done more than any Viking, Norman, Saint (Begnet included), author, rock star or politician to put Dalkey on the international map. In 1797, the good burgers of the seaside town selected a chap called Stephen Armitage to be crowned ‘King of Dalkey, Emperor of the Vikings, Prince of the Holy Island of Magee, Baron of Bulloch, Seigneur of Sandycove, Defender of the Faith and Respector of All Others’. In 2020, it’s time for the uncrowned monarch to take his rightful position. Arise, King Matt.