Phoenix Park is the one of the largest walled city parks in Europe. This is an amazing park. It lies in the capital city of Ireland, Dublin. It is not just a park, though, as the residency of President of Ireland, Aras an Uachtarain, is here, as well as the U.S. Ambassador’s residence. Phoenix Park was established in 1662 by James Butler, Duke of Ormond on behalf of King Charles II of England. Phoenix Park is 707 hectares, covering an area north of River Liffey.

The Phoenix Park is famous for its herd of Fallow deer, which were first introduced by James Butler. Thirty percent of the park is woods, with oak, ash, lime, beech, sycamore and horsechestnut trees. Dublin Zoo is one of the park’s main attractions. It is the third oldest zoo in the world. In addition to the zoo, there are many other things to do:

• Ashtown Castle
It is a medieval residence that dates back to the 17th century. However, the castle was not discovered until 1978, when a much larger building was demolished, and the castle was found inside. John Ashtown built the castle in 1641. The castle yard has many orchards and cottage built by John Ashtown. In 1774, Ashtown lodge was incorporated into the castle. A series of tunnels connects the two.

• Phoenix Monument
It built in 1747 by fourth Earl of Chesterfield who carved it as a Corinthian column with a Phoenix on top. It is located in the center of the park at the end of tree-lined Chesterfield Avenue.

• Victorian People’s Flower Garden
The gardens were first established in 1840 and cover nine hectares, between North Circular Road Gate and Park Gate Street entrance. They were originally established as the promenade grounds. The Victorian design style has been kept.

• Papal Cross
It is a simple large white cross. It was built when Pope John Paul II on September 29th, 1979. When Pope John Paul II died in 2005, a memorial service was held at this site.

• Magazine Fort
Sir Edward Fisher built the Phoenix Lodge in 1611. In 1734 the house was destroyed, and the Duke of Dorset built the bastion magazine and fort. The defense fort has a long history from when the British occupied Ireland. Visitors are not allowed inside the magazine. You may only look at the outside and the surface of the fort because it is not in a state that is safe to enter.

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