The Spire has reached a significant milestone as it celebrates 20 years of existence in Dublin.
The famous monument was erected between 2002 and 2003, with works officially concluding on January 21, 2003. The 120-metre structure was designed by architect Ian Ritchie, and cost a staggering €4.6 million to create.
The Spire is not without its critics, with many people feeling it adds little colour or significance to the city skyline, The statue may arguably lack physical beauty, but it still makes for a great meeting spot due to its looming stance over O'Connell Street.
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Here are some of the most interesting facts about the modern structure as it reaches its 20th anniversary.
The Spire came to be through an open competition
Dublin City Council decided to mark the new millennium through a new monument that encapsulated the city. An open competition was subsequently launched to find the best entry from a range of talented architects, with over 200 entries submitted in total.
Two separate entries even contested Ian Ritchie's win through High Court action. An artist and a sculptor who entered the competition took separate actions to prevent the infamous monument from being built.
It has a more beautiful Irish name
The Spire is alternatively known as An Tur Solais, which translates to 'The Monument of Light.' Interestingly, The Spire is intended to serve as a beacon of hope and was inspired by the composition of the Irish skyline.
Its construction was delayed
The Spire missed its deadline by roughly three years. The project was meant to conclude in 2000 but this was rendered impossible following legal challenges. Additionally, there were also difficulties in securing planning permission for the large-scale construction.
A time capsule is buried under the Spire as a reminder of Ireland's past
Relics of 20th and 21st-century life lie underneath the ground beside Dublin's Spire. The time capsule was brought in as part of the Spire's unveiling ceremony in July 2003 and will hopefully give Dubliners in 200 years' time a taste of what life once was like in the capital.
What are your thoughts on the Spire? Has your opinion changed on its construction 20 years on? Let us know in the comments below.
