Laoghaire

Laoghaire is the anglicized name often used for Dún Laoghaire, a coastal town in County Dublin, Ireland. The town sits on Dublin Bay, roughly 12 kilometers south of Dublin’s city center, and is part of the greater Dublin metropolitan area. The Irish-language name Dún Laoghaire translates as Fort of Laoghaire, a reference to a historical or legendary figure associated with the area.

Historically, the harbour at Dun Laoghaire was developed in the early 19th century to serve Dublin. It was originally known as Dunleary and was renamed Kingstown in the 1820s after a royal visit. Following Irish independence in 1920, the town adopted the Gaelic name Dún Laoghaire, reflecting a shift toward Irish national identity in place names.

Today, Dún Laoghaire is a coastal suburb with a notable harbour, quay, and promenade that extend along Dublin Bay. It functions as a major commuter town for Dublin and is served by the DART light rail system, providing connections to Dublin city and surrounding areas. The seafront area hosts a variety of shops, cafés, and cultural facilities, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors.

Geographically and administratively, Dún Laoghaire lies within County Dublin and is part of the traditional barony of Rathdown. It forms a distinct urban center within the Dublin region, balancing residential neighborhoods with maritime and leisure amenities that reflect its historical role as a port and seaside resort.