Rod Stewart paid a visit to an iconic Dublin pub this week, which has taken us on a trip down memory lane to think about why we love it so much.
The 77-year-old musician posed with staff at John Kavanagh "The Gavediggers" pub in Glasnevin on an historic day. On May 4 1916, Joseph Mary Plunkett, one of the signatories of the Proclamation of Independence, married Grace Gifford in Kilmainham Gaol just hours before his execution.
The short-lived marriage inspired Frank and Seán Meara to pen "Grace" in 1985 which Stewart released his own version of in 2018.
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While the pub is one of Rod's favourites to visit when in Dublin, it is the regular haunt for many in the area.
Situated at Prospect Square in Glasnevin, the bar is still run by generations of Kavanaghs, making it one of the remaining authentic historic pubs in the city, having first opened its doors in 1833.
The boozer is famed for its pints of plain, serving an experience with absolutely no frills. Don't expect any music, TVs or background noise. Rather, gear up for decent conversation or simply enjoying a solo pint in peace.
What helps transport visitors back in time is the decor, which has seen few changes throughout the decades. The inside of the pub the aged wood-panelled wall, warm low lights and the old-fashioned posters.
If you're scared of a bit of spook, then perhaps John Kavanagh's isn't for you. Nicknamed "The Gravediggers" because it was frequented by the workers in Glasnevin Cemetery across the way, it is believed that many of the souls resting in the burial place occasionally come back to the haunt for a visit.
In fact, the pub is a popular stop on the Gravedigger Ghost Tours operating in the capital.
What to expect from John Kavanagh "The Gravediggers" is something true to Dublin's history and culture. Us Dubs love our heritage and a visit to this spot is a sure way to pay tribute to that, all while enjoying a lovely pint of the black stuff and some wholesome traditional Irish grub as well.
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