ABSTRACT
Phoenix Park was established as a royal deer park in 1662 by one of Ireland's most illustrious viceroys, James Butler, Duke of Ormond, on behalf of King Charles II of England. As a natural and constructed park, enclosed over 300 years ago by a demesne wall, Phoenix Park is unique in Ireland. The Duke of Wellington was based in Phoenix Park when he was chief secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland between 1807 and 1809. Phoenix Park is an extremely important site for biodiversity in Dublin. In recent decades, the growth of Dublin has significantly altered the position and use of Phoenix Park and affected its role and potential. The long-term vision for Phoenix Park combines its protection, conservation, enjoyment and tranquility as an important unique historic landscape for the residents of Dublin and visitors to Ireland.
