Learning doesn’t have to be serious all the time! A group of Abbey College students went on a trip to the Chester Beatty Library last week. The library is often described as one of the best in Europe and it looks like the students agreed!

This is what they said:

• ” When we arrived at the museum, I was amazed. The third level was the most amazing because the museum gives us new information about different religions. It’s really something we should appreciate. If I could meet this great guy ( Chester Beatty), I’d like to say thanks.”  Abo Mannaf
• ” In my opinion, Chester Beatty was a giant. He travelled to many countries and different cultures , and the inspiration gushed from his mind to collect antiques.  The first and second floors display terrific calligraphy. ” Kah Chauan Pann
• ” I was really surprised and excited by the Chinese artistic treasures. I felt very lucky to visit the library and very proud that there were so many valuable collections from our country, which can help people to know China well. Even though I wish these collections could go back to China one day. “  Manje Ren
  

Jane, one of the teachers also had a great day out:

• ” A lot of the collection comes from Asia, the Middle East and Europe so the cultural mix was an excellent exchange of ideas between the students and staff. It was exiting for me to hear my Mongolian student recognise the script on the Jade books as an ancient form of Mongol, and an Indian student highlight an ancient Indian illustration, and a Malaysian student explain the Arabic texts.
• Some of the European and Brazilian students were extremely interested in teh diversity of Christian ceremonies compared to their own countries. The ancient custom of banging the bride and grooom’s head together in a hill top region,  rather the common tradition of exchanging rings at the end of the marriage ceremony was just one of things which prompted a lively discussion.
• It was fabulous to see everyone sharing their knowledge and experiencing the educational facilities available in Dublin. It was, I think, a very stimulatin outing for everyone. Lastly, we have to say a big thank you to the Chester Beatty Educational Department for all their help in facilitiating this visit.

Can you spot your friends in these photos?

The students pose for photos!

WEEKEND TIP

Head over to the monthly Smithfield Horse Fair on Sunday. A great place to see some living Irish history.

And afterwards you could listen to some great music at the The Mezz Bar on Eustace street which has free music gigs every Sunday between 3pm and 9pm

Have you been on any good trips around Dublin?