The Diving Bell, located on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, has been transformed into an interpretative exhibition where visitors can learn in detail about the origin and history of this important artefact in Dublin’s maritime history.
An ingenious feat of Irish engineering, the Diving Bell was essential in building Dublin’s quay walls for 87 years and was used to construct the North Wall Extension and Alexandra Basin.
The Bell was built with no base. This allowed it to be supplied with compressed air, forming a chamber in which six people could work in deep water. Workers would climb inside through an access funnel on the surface, and down into the 400 sq ft chamber. From there they would work on the riverbed, which was exposed at their feet.
It was revolutionary in the engineering world and instrumental in the development of the Liffey’s quay walls – which in turn were the first building blocks of Spencer Dock.
Restoration works are now complete. The bell has been elevated onto a two-metre high structure. In the space underneath, a public exhibition explains the history of the artefact.
So pop over to this free exhibition – you won’t be disappointed!
