The Phoenix Park, one of the biggest enclosed parks in the world, provides a breath of fresh air amid the urban sprawl of modern Dublin. Brendan Nolan's comprehensive guide to the Phoenix Park covers its origins and history, buildings and monuments, wildlife, literary associations, local lore, military use, sports, self-guided walks, and its future in an urban environment. The author provides detailed histories and descriptions of all of the landmarks in the Park, including the Zoo, Aras an Uachtarain, Farmleigh, Ashtown Castle, the American Ambassador's Residence, Garda Headquarters, etc. He touches on such historical events as the infamous murders of 1882, the Eucharistic Congress of 1932, and the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1979. This book will be of interest to tourists and visitors, to locals and Dubliners in general, and to anyone interested in this most historic and scenic park.