Dublin is a city alive with history, as well as a bustling modern centre of commerce and trade. With a long, illustrious and widely documented history which harks back to the Viking era in the 9th century, through some turbulent Middle ages and beyond, there’s plenty to see and do for those who want to get closer to Dublin’s past. In a city so rich in history, and one which wears its lengthy heritage and roots proudly with myriad attractions, monuments and festivals, deciding what to see to make sure you don’t miss out on the cream of the crop can be a big ask. To help you experience the history buff’s Dublin like a local, read on to discover a few of our favourite sights which we think every culture vulture and historian must see on their next Dublin adventure…
Trinity College Library
What better place to catch up with some of Dublin’s history than in the library of the world-famous Trinity College? This building represented a significant turning point in the nation’s history, whereby a Royal Charter of 1592 demanded the formation of a library to educate professionals. As such, it’s historically and culturally significant and has stood the test of time over Centuries of events. Today, the library is open to the public as long as students are not busy preparing for their exams, and much of the original architecture dating back to the 1590s can still be seen and enjoyed.
National Museum of Ireland
As Ireland’s biggest and best museum, the National Museum of Ireland contains some of the best exhibits of their kind, telling the tale of what built the city. Whether exploring the rituals and politics which helped to create Ireland as it is today, or perusing some of the ancient architecture and natural history that remains in the capital, this is a must-see attraction for Dublin history buffs.
National Gallery of Ireland
Merrion Square’s National Gallery was created in 1854 and opened to the public a decade later. The gallery is world-renowned for its vast collection of art from some of Europe’s finest masters, available to view in both permanent and touring exhibitions. An added bonus of the National Gallery to visitors is that entry is entirely free and open to the public year-round. It is also accessible from the O’Callaghan Davenport Hotel and other hotels near Merrion Square, providing a valuable day out for history buffs and culture vultures alike whilst staying in Dublin.
Dublin Castle
Since its initial construction back in 1204, Dublin Castle has been in near continuous use. Originally constructed as a Celtic settlement, today the castle is still in use as a valuable and significant area for conferences, events and dining. Pieces have been added and amended since the first structure, of which little now remains – but nonetheless the castle provides a valuable glimpse at how the elite lived some 800 years ago.
