Croke Park, also known as Croker, is only a short trip across the River Liffey from the City Language School campus in the city centre. This was once the largest stadium in Europe and the site has been the home of the Gaelic Athletic Association for well over a century.
Becasue of its size and location the stadium is often used as a place for big concerts and over the years it has hosted names such as U2, Ed Sheerhan and, controversially, Garth Brooks. Though it is a great place for concerts it remains integral to irish society and culture as a place for Gaelic Games. Every September the Hurling, Gaelic Football and Camoige All-Ireland Finals are held here and they draw huge crowds.
Last week our wonderful teacher and part-time tour guide, Padraig O\’Berine took a group of eight students to find out more about the stadium and its history.
\”It was a real treat to be able to bring the guys up to this wonderful stadium and take the stadium tour,\” says Padraig. \”We found out an awful lot about the stadium\’s history and how imprtant it is in Irish Culture. The games that are played here are ancient games. Hurling is unique to Ireland and it is probably one of the most ancient games in the world. There are a few things that set us apart from other English-speaking countries. Our music, our dance and our literature are famous all over the world but the sports that are played in this stadium are just as important to us if not more so.\”
City Language School Dublin
City Language School is right in the heart of Dublin City Centre. Dublin is the proud and vibrant capital of Ireland and with its cosmopolitan and modern feel, it has repeatedly been voted Europe’s friendliest city by Trip Advisor. Dublin boasts strong links with literature, music, dance and storytelling. As you walk through the streets of Temple Bar, you can absorb the musical tradition which spills onto the streets from the many bars and restaurants; truly a city of enormous beauty! Dublin is surrounded by breath-taking natural scenery that will leave you with lifelong memories. It is perfectly located on the eastern coastline of Ireland and is a convenient gateway to the rest of Europe.
We are conveniently located in the heart of Dublin on Dame Street, giving you easy access to the whole city of Dublin as well as bus and tram lines for you to get around.