Parnell Square, called Rutland Square in the 18th century, is one of Dublin’s classic Georgian squares. On this, the east side, are some of the largest Georgian houses in the city. In the centre of the square, where the ancillary buildings of the Rotunda Hospital are now, there were once splendid gardens where the nobility and glitterati of the 18th century used to gather to enjoy stylish parties, festivals and carnivals. The revenue from these assemblies all went to support the work of the hospital