Dr Steevens' Hospital

Dublin · Ireland · Hospital

For a century Dublin was certain the founder's sister hid a pig's face behind her veil. Her portrait still hangs in the hospital library.

The hospital opened in 1733 on money from the will of the physician Richard Steevens, administered by his twin sister Grizel. She lived in the building, gave out alms, and always crossed the courtyards closely veiled — and the city drew its own conclusion. The rumour ran that her mother had driven off a beggar woman with the words that she was like an old sow with her litter, and that the curse fell back on the daughter, who was born with the face of a pig. Throughout the nineteenth century Madam Steevens was the pig-faced lady of Dublin. She had a portrait painted that still hangs in the hospital library, showing a face marked by nothing but steady calm and iron will. The pig-faced tale appears in no source from her own century.

FAQ

Where is Dr Steevens' Hospital located?

Dr Steevens' Hospital is in Dublin, Ireland.

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