Few persons who have occasion to go through the narrow passage-way that leads from Christ Church Place down to the quays are aware of the fact that their footsteps are traversing what was once known as Hell.
The old passage-way got its name from a carved emblem of the Devil that stood over the arched entrance. Despite its name, Hell was once an attractive place. Here were shops that sold toys, kites and things dear to the juvenile heart, while for the grown-ups there were taverns, snuggeries and lodginghouses, where the men of the law were wont to gather and exchange legal gossip.
Its fame extended beyond the shores of Ireland, being mentioned by the poet Burns in one of his poems. Tourists up from the country, it is said, would not deem their visit to Dublin complete if it did not include an excursion to Hell.
The Irish Times, March 13th, 1931.