Heard Any Explosive Noises Coming From the Phoenix Park Today? That’d Be All The Cannons

Irish Defence Forces are practicing with cannons today in the Phoenix Park. The noisy rehearsal comes ahead of a German state delegation, including German President Joachim Gauck, that will visit Ireland next week. Apparently a 21-gun salute is customary for such an occasion - who knew?!

If you're questioning the wisdom of firing cannons in a public park, you can relax, as it's been confirmed that the noises were merely pyrotechnic rounds fired by the Second Field Artillery Regiment, according to The Journal.

Over the course of the German president's trip he will visit the Garden of Remembrance, Leinster House, attend a state dinner at Áras an Uachtaráin and see the Cliffs of Moher.

Nice little travel itinerary you got there, Joachim!