DUBLINERS have cried ‘we are rebuilding’ after a bizarre viral cherry tomato landmark was destroyed.
People began to flock to the Drumcondra bridge last week after videos of cherry tomatoes placed decoratively appeared on social media platforms.
Thousands of videos have since appeared online referencing the phenomenon and it now has even claimed a spot on Google Maps, with a five-star rating.
Visitors to the site brought all kinds of gifts, from more tomatoes to framed pictures, pasta, basil, bottles of ketchup and even holy water.
People left raving reviews on social media, online and in the media, with one even noting that she is there to “worship it”.
One review on Google Maps said: “Visited this sacred space earlier with my family, and they absolutely loved it! The essence of this landmark was truly fascinating, and it has some interesting history linked to it.
“Would definitely recommend if in the Drumcondra area. Maith thu!”
Someone else added: “I thought the Split Rock of Dromore was great, and it is, but this is in another league. Unmissable.”
As a result of the pandemonium, cabbages also appeared on the other side of the bridge.
But it appears it was too much enjoyment for some people.
Now, locals are devastated as the spread, located in Drumcondra, has been destroyed, with many vowing to repair it.
In a video posted to X, formerly Twitter, @LovinDublin shared a look at the scene now – with the tomatoes scattered all over the train tracks underneath the bridge.
Paying tribute, they wrote: “Death Notice: The Cherry Tomato Bridge, Drumcondra
“It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely demise of the Cherry Tomato Bridge, Drumcondra, which departed this world no more than ten minutes ago, for reasons as mysterious as its sudden appearance.
“Beloved by all who stumbled upon its peculiar charm, the bridge was a fleeting marvel.
“It was a spirited bridge and a gathering place for bewildered pedestrians, Instagram opportunists, and lovers of the absurd.
“Its origins remain a mystery, whispered about in hushed tones over pints and speculated upon in Dublin’s most eccentric corners.
“The Cherry Tomato Bridge is survived by its memes, its baffled admirers, and all those who loved it.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam — or whatever the tomato equivalent of that is.
“A moment of silence will be observed at the scene, followed by a respectful scattering of likes and comments.”
‘NOT OVER’
Other social media users were equally devastated to hear the news – but vowed not to give up.
One person tweeted: “CHERRY TOMATO BRIDGE IS NOT OVER WE ARE REBUILDING”.
Another cried: “Rip cherry tomato bridge. gone but never forgotten,” to which someone responded: “We must rebuild”.
On it’s Tripadvisor page, the reviews hold just one positive story about a man who ventured to the bridge before this horrible turn of events.
He wrote: “Recently visited the bridge on recommendation from a local guide. I’ve got to say it really lived up to my expectations.
“We visited on Sunday morning and the spot was already getting quite busy.
“Queued for around 10 minutes, it’s advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes as the terrain can be quite slippy.
“Once we got up close to see it I was awe-inspired, the contrast of the deep reds against the grey concrete is phenomenal.”
Since it’s destruction, people have said they are ‘heartbroken’, with one girl asking the Irish Independent in a video posted to TikTok: “What is life anymore? There’s no meaning left… I’m going to take a depression nap right now”.
Another girl in the video pleaded for the bridge to be built up again, with the original girl adding: “That’s what hope is”.
But the origin story of the bridge is still unknown, and perhaps always will be.
One person tweeted: “There’s going to be some random person in a pub for the next 20 years saying “ya know I left those tomatoes there one night when I was drunk””.
But to whoever did start up Ireland’s newest tourist attraction, on behalf of the Irish public, thank you for the enjoyment.
