FAME Sarah This is a statue of Fame, so we want to talk about Powerscourt’s enduring fame, and our own feelings for this special place. Anthony This statue of Fame was created for the 7th Lord Powerscourt Mervyn in 1866. Alex Powerscourt’s great fame as a place of exceptional beauty dates back to the 18th century. Anthony George Frederick Handel received inspiration at the waterfall when writing his choral masterpiece - the Messiah. Sarah A succession of international celebrities and royalty have followed in the great composer’s footsteps. SWEPT AWAY Anthony In 1821 King George IV raised eyebrows by visiting Ireland. It was within days of the suspicious death of his wife. A planned visit to Powerscourt almost led to his own death Alex The 5th Lord Powerscourt Richard ordered estate workers to dam the waterfall and create a spectacular viewing platform. Sarah Fortunately The king was not on it. After banqueting all day he was too full to leave Powerscourt House. Anthony His appetite saved him! The power of the water collapsed the dam and swept the platform clean away! The destiny of the British Empire could have been changed forever. God saved the King! ENJOYMENT BY ALL Sarah When David Bowie came here to do a photo shoot, he wanted a classical statue for his album cover. But the record company worried that our statue might need a fig leaf. He strolled through the gardens with his beautiful wife Iman Anthony There have been so many famous visitors over the years. Princess Grace of Monaco once danced the night away at a ball in Powerscourt House. But you no longer have be a privileged guest of my family to enjoy this garden paradise. Alex As I work in the gardens I think of all the people down through the generations that have helped to create and enhance Powerscourt. Most of those who dedicated their lives to Powerscourt did not see their visions realized during their lifetime. Anthony I am proud that Powerscourt continues to thrive today, bringing enjoyment to so many people. Sarah There is a great sense of continuity. Powerscourt is bigger and greater than all of us. Thank you so much for joining us on our tour of Powerscourt Gardens. Alex These ever evolving gardens change dramatically during each of the seasons. Visit us again to see our daffodils in spring, our dazzling summer displays, and the vibrant autumn colours and winter gardens. Anthony Now that you have seen our beautiful gardens, why not visit some of the many other heritage attractions along Ireland’s Ancient East and enjoy over 5,000 years of history and story-telling.