‘Celtic Parthenon’ best left in its original state

WITH regard to recent suggestions in the media as to what to do with the GPO in Dublin, it is imperative that we hold that problem in “Abbey-ance”. Since this is a problem of classical proportions, we must consider very carefully what to do, if anything is to be done, with what might be described as our Celtic Parthenon.

Now the Parthenon in Athens (a supreme example of Doric architecture) went through a few changes in its time.

Originally built (by Ictinus and Callicrates under Pericles on the Acropolis at Athens, c 447-432 BC) as chief temple of the goddess of wisdom, Athena, the Parthenon throughout its long life has functioned most importantly as a Greek temple, but has also been a treasury, a fortress, a church and a mosque.

Today, it is one of the most recognisable icons and popular tourist attractions in the world.

But the attraction is to its original significance as a Greek temple and hence the Greek authorities’ dedication to the preservation of its architectural and historical integrity. We must think very carefully before we make a song and dance — in other words, a theatre — out of our most recognisable icon — our Celtic Parthenon. And did it not function very well for more than over 190 years as a general post office?

Catríona Bairbre Bean

Mhic Ríbín

Cois Gaineamh

Port na Hínse

Bettystown

Co Meath