“Monto” is still a word that slips from the lips of Dubliners often, with an air of affectionate or roguish allusion. Monto was, of course, the infamous red-light district named for Montgomery Street (now Foley Street) and enclosed within the bounds of Talbot St and Sean McDermott St, and Lower Gardner St to Amien St.
The facts you always hear brought up in any article about Monto are that it was the basis for the Nighttown chapter of Ulysses, and that it was, at its peak, the largest red-light district in Europe: so having disposed of those clichés, we can move on to Hell.
Hell was the other great Dublin zone of iniquity, dominated by the presence of taverns, brothels and gambling houses, and sited, incongruously, in the lanes and alleys around Christchurch Cathedral. This area, encompassing Copper Hill, Fishamble St, Winetavern St and Cook St, was known by its dramatic nickname as far back as the 18th century, although little recognised today (maybe in part due to the influence of the Tourism Board and saintly auspices of the cathedral).
The was a tavern actually named Hell, which took up residence in the crypt of Christchurch Cathedral and was connected by association with the now-legendary Hellfire Club. Fear not for we will be meeting above ground.
Event takes place at the posted co-ordinates in the heart of Hell and will run from 6.00-6.30pm. There will be a draw for a FTF prize and perhaps one other surprise. We might then retire to a local tavern for refreshments.
Congratulations to Goldcircle for nabbing the FTF Prize.