Dublin Implements Guarding Measures for Iconic Molly Malone Statue

Dublin's iconic Molly Malone statue will soon be monitored by stewards to prevent excessive touching, particularly on its bust, which has faced discoloration due to tourist interactions. The city council aims to educate visitors while restoring the statue.

Dublin is taking significant steps to safeguard the beloved Molly Malone statue, an emblematic figure woven into Irish folklore. The statue, located on Suffolk Street, represents the lively character from the popular song “Molly Malone” or “Cockles and Mussels,” often sung during St. Patrick’s Day festivities worldwide.

In a bid to tackle complaints from the public regarding the statue's mistreatment, particularly frequent touching by tourists for supposed good luck, the Dublin City Council announced that it would employ stewards next to the statue. These stewards will be tasked not only with guarding the sculpture but also with educating visitors about its cultural significance.

The heightened interaction has resulted in visible wear and discoloration, especially on the statue’s breasts, which has prompted the council to initiate repairs. This maintenance process isn't new, as it has become necessary due to the statue's enduring popularity and the hands-on approach of tourists.

The initiative is also a response to the “Leave Molly mAlone” campaign spearheaded by Tilly Cripwell, a Trinity College Dublin student and busker who has advocated for the preservation of the statue's integrity. She emphasized the importance of respecting this cultural landmark and preserving it for future generations.

With plans set for the stewards to be present for a week in May, local officials hope to balance the statue's popularity with its protection, ensuring that Molly Malone can continue to be a cherished icon of Dublin.