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Curious Eye
How a papiér-maché tribute to a 19th century building became an unusual Irish landmark
Discover the fascinating history of Co Waterford’s Dromana Gate, one of the only examples of Hindu-Gothic architecture in Ireland.
IRELAND HAS AN impressive selection of castles fit for a fairytale and remarkable ruins signposting surprising histories that enrich our culture.
In Co. Waterford, between the picturesque village of Villierstown and the town of Cappoquin, you’ll find a one-of-a kind landmark that will make you do a double take. At the foot of a narrow bridge above the stunning River Blackwater stands Dromana Gate, a striking passageway built in the 19th century and is the only known example of Hindu-Gothic architecture in the country.
The origins of this unusual structure, which leads into the Dromana Estate, dates back to 1826 and was meant to commemorate the wedding of Henry Villiers-Stuart and Theresia Pauline Ott. The commanding gateway, comprised of three substantial sections, two of which are adorned with 2 windows featuring modest iron-work detailing on either side of the arched passageway which is complete with a copper dome.
The blueprint for Dromana Gate was inspired by a fascinating site in Brighton. The majestic Royal Pavilion, designed by renowned architect John Nash, was only newly erected before influencing this Irish landmark.
Construction of the Royal Pavilion was completed in 1823, its design was inspired by the Indo-Saracenic (also known as Indo-Gothic) which was utilised by British architects throughout the 19th century on various public and government buildings during the rule of the empire in India. The purpose of the Royal Pavilion was to provide an impressive seaside dwelling for King George IV.
It is thought that Villiers-Stuart and his bride were immediately captivated by the Pavilion during their time honeymooning in Brighton. Upon their return to Dromana Estate, the couple were greeted by a temporary folly which incorporated certain design elements of the Royal Pavilion. The decorative gateway was originally set-up by locals to greet Villiers-Stuart and his new bride upon their return from their honeymoon and was made with a large wooden facade covered with canvas and decorated with papiér-maché.
Seemingly, the couple loved the feature so much that they enlisted prominent architect Martin Day, who had worked extensively in counties Waterford and Wexford, to create a more permanent structure made from stone for the entrance of Dromana Estate. There are drawings dating back to 1849 for the gate with the construction of the gate following shortly afterwards.
Over the years, Dromana Gate has been subject to vandalism and has received restorative works by the Irish Georgian Society in the 1960s, and later in the 1990s by Waterford County Council.
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