Blackrock

Blackrock was named after a prominent geological rock formation of limestone calp which was visible on the coastline before it was buried under Blackrock Park in the 19th century. The townland was originally called Newtown-at-the Black Rock, and that name still persists in Newtown Avenue and Newtown House. Blackrock was a popular bathing place in the 18^th century until the arrival of the railway interrupted the sea views and cut off the shoreline, created a salty marsh inland of the line. Eventually this was filled in creating Blackrock Park. Today, Blackrock remains one of the more desirable residential locations on Dublin’s southside and is home to Ireland’s best known private hospital, a quirky weekend market and that bastion of Irish Rugby, Blackrock College.