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Visiting the Market House, Armagh City, Northern Ireland: Georgian Landmark Dating from 1815
Early 19th century Neoclassical landmark in Downtown Armagh City
This fine building (1), which dominates the Downtown area of Armagh City, dates from the year 1815. Known as the Market House, it is now used as a library.
The Market House also served as a school for many years.
Interestingly, an outdoor market is still regularly held in the shadow of the building, which in this sense is still aptly named.
The building is variously attributed to Thomas Duff (c.1792-1848) and Francis Johnston (1760-1829).
Its Georgian Neoclassical features include a 5 bay frontage and a clock set within an open circular pediment. Two further pediments occur at the rear of the building.
Originally a two-storey building, a third storey was added in the early 20th century. The structure was executed in limestone; and the material used a century apart for the total of three storeys has blended well together.
Market House is situated in Market Street, Armagh City, in the county of Armagh.
February 19, 2019
Notes
(1) See also: http://irishantiquities.bravehost.com/armagh/armagh/armaghMH.html The building is not to be confused with Armagh City's Corn Market in Dawson Street, dating from 1827.
(2) Architect Thomas Duff was responsible for Armagh's strongly Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral (contrasting greatly in style with the Market House), among other works.
(3) Architect Francis Johnston was responsible for Dublin's GPO building, among other works.
Also worth seeing
In Armagh City itself, in addition to the two cathedrals (mentioned in the second paragraph, above, local historical museums are of particular interest to visitors. There are various, elegant Georgian buildings in the Downtown area. In The Mall, First Presbyterian Church and the Gospel Hall are also of architectural note.
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How to get there: United Airlines flies from New York Newark to Belfast International Airport, at Aldergrove, where car rental is available. Ulsterbus maintains a service between Belfast and Armagh City. Please note that some facilities may be withdrawn, without notice. You are advised to check with the airline or your travel agent for up to date information.
MJFenn is an independent travel writer based in Ontario, Canada.
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