Molly Malone Statue, Dublin

Dublin's main commercial drag and a haven for avid people-watchers, Grafton Street kicks off with an intriguing sight: the bronze statue of Molly Malone, complete with a wheelbarrow filled with cockles and mussels. Immortalized in the popular 19th-century song, Molly Malone's existence is shrouded in mystery – some doubt she ever walked the streets of Dublin.

The statue itself sparked controversy upon its unveiling during the 1988 Dublin Millennium festivities. Depicted as a young woman with ample cleavage, Molly ignited debates about the portrayal of women in public art. Dubbed "The Tart with the Cart" or "The Dish with the Fish", the statue has garnered mixed reactions: some see it as offensive to women while others find its provocative nature appealing.

The origins of the song "Molly Malone" are equally enigmatic. First appearing in the 19th century, its roots are debated – some claim it originated in Scotland, while others argue it's a product of the Victorian music hall era. Nevertheless, with its iconic opening line "In Dublin’s fair city", the song has become inseparable from the Irish capital's identity, often regarded as a second national anthem. In honor of Molly, June 13th has been officially designated as Molly Malone Day since 1988.