Papal Cross

Explorer Tom The Papal Cross is basically a giant steel sculpture that had a few bad days with high winds before it settled in. Perfect place for pretending you're a pilgrim who just got here on a very expensive chariot.

Explorer Tom Phoenix Park in County Dublin has deer grazing near the Papal Cross. They look very judgmental, frankly. Try not to make eye contact or they might charge you.

Explorer Tom Phoenix Monument is a Corinthian column with a phoenix rising from ashes, which is basically a motivational poster made of stone. It was moved in the 1830s because Lord Chesterfield felt it needed a better view. Twist your hat and wave like you’re the boss!

Explorer Tom Oldtown Wood in County Dublin gives a glimpse of the 'Fifteen Acres' and mountains. Sounds like a real estate listing. Probably beautiful though. Take a picture of the gap, not just the trees.

Explorer Tom Walled Garden in County Dublin is playing hard to get. Probably full of gossiping ivy vines by now. Peek through a gap if you dare, love!

Explorer Tom Knockmaree Dolmen in County Dublin is having a nap under its giant stone blanket. It’s been snoozing for ages, dreaming about ancient farmers. Wake it up gently if you dare!

Explorer Tom Ashtown Castle is hiding out in Phoenix Park, I think. The caption says it’s there, but the record just says County Dublin. Go find it and tell me if it looks like it wants to be found!

Explorer Tom Magazine Fort in Dublin is a quadrilateral powerhouse with demi-bastions that probably still have opinions on your posture. It stored powder and munitions back when things were more explosive. Bring the dog, it'll have opinions.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Dublin is in Chapelizod, with medieval burials found under the current church site. The boundary wall is there, but the old graveyard extended further out, which is annoying for archaeologists. Look for the ghost, then pretend you didn't see a thing at all.

Explorer Tom Islandbridge Lodge sounds fancy but it’s probably just a big old house with opinions. The garden might bite back if you’re not polite.

Explorer Tom Horse-chestnut in County Dublin is waiting for a cow that tried to buy it with a milk ticket last Tuesday. The cow left without paying and the tree is still fuming about the audacity of the whole situation. It's the kind of place that makes a dull Tuesday interesting, trust me.

Explorer Tom Chapelizod Bypass in County Dublin is a memorial to traffic that never stopped. It's just a road with feelings, I suppose. Take a photo of a car if you can catch one.