Besides its natural beauty, picturesque landscapes, and rolling hills, Dublin, Ireland is a place with a rich heritage that dates more than 1000 years back. What makes this city so interesting is the fact that it has seen many cultural changes throughout its history. One can find hundreds of ancient artefacts, famous landmarks, and monuments in the city of Dublin. Here are just a view examples of the top historical spots one needs to visit when in Dublin, Ireland.
Malahide Castle
Malahide Castle was built in the 12th century by the Talbot family along the north coast of Dublin. Its natural, historic architecture has been preserved and restored so that visitors can admire it. The castle hosts a permanent exhibition about its history and involvement in the Battle of the Boyne. There are several rooms to explore that are reminiscent of ancient times.
The beautiful courtyards and gardens are also open for visitors who want to enjoy the scenery. The gardens of Malahide Castle hold over 5 000 plant and flower species to explore while the courtyards provide a relaxing space to enjoy some refreshments.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
This National Cathedral and Collegiate Church were built in honour of Saint Patrick. Before, Saint Patrick used to baptize Christian converts at this Cathedral. Apart from being a historical landmark that holds a significant role in the history of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral remains the largest cathedral in Ireland today.
This Cathedral features vibrant stained-glass windows, a fantastic altar, and a cathedral tower. Visitors can take a tour through the hallowed hallways of this church that has withstood storms, fires, neglect, and persecution for over 800 years. Here you are also welcome to stay for one of the daily worship services.
National Museum of Ireland
At the National Museum of Ireland, there is plenty of archaeology, decorative arts, and history to discover. Three out of four of the national museum branches of Ireland are based in Dublin and it is worth dedicating an entire day to these museums as there is much to see.
Here visitors can learn about Ireland’s exciting history, the dark side of Irish politics, and have a look at the old customs, rituals, and cultural aspects that still influence the people of Ireland today. The collections that can be found in these museums are inspiring, entertaining, and enlightening which makes them well worth the visit.
National Gallery of Ireland
Anyone who loves art would love the National Gallery of Ireland as one will come in contact with plenty of fine art and culture. The National Gallery of Ireland itself is a modern architectural structure that was founded in 1854.
Some of the collections that can be found here are world famous, including some Irish and European art. The National Gallery of Ireland holds collections that are permanent as well as famous exhibits from around the world, which are displayed randomly when on loan from other galleries. The public is allowed to visit that National Gallery of Ireland free of charge.
Ardgillan Castle
The Ardgillan Castle is another great tourist attraction, which was built by the Robert Taylor family in 1738. The Taylor family used this country-style residence for generations and today it serves as a well-known public park and playground facility on the island. Here you can also get a breath-taking view of the Irish Sea and the Mourne Mountains.
Dublin Castle
One of the most important historical sites in Dublin is the Dublin Castle, which has served as a royal seat of power, fortress, prison, and more since the 13th century. The staterooms are open for guided tours and the Medieval Undercroft and Chapel Royal are open for public view.
Kilmainham Gaol
Kilmainham Gaol, which was built in 1796, played a significant role in Ireland’s past as a prison. Many prisoners that were detained and executed here were part of rebellious movements. Kilmainham Gaol stopped functioning as a prison in 1924 and was later turned into a museum that is open for guided public tours.
This prison allows visitors to understand a period of history in Ireland that is unpleasant but formative as they can see in eerie detail the way the captives roamed through the hallways under that watchful eye of the correctional officers.
Trinity College Dublin
One of the most respected universities in the world is Trinity College Dublin. This college is also an essential cultural landmark in the city of Dublin and is home to a stunning library that arches with history. In the Trinity College Library, one can find thousands of age-old texts as well as an exhibit that holds some of Dublin’s most popular illustrated 9th-century manuscripts, which are the Book of Kells and the Book of Durrow.
Christ Church Cathedral
At the Christ Church Cathedral, people of all faiths are welcome to come in and roam the halls of the church, which holds a medieval crypt. This church was founded in 1028, which makes it one of the oldest structures in all of Great Britain. If you love the historical, religious, and cultural aspects of a city, then the Christ Church Cathedral is a must see. Here you can also attend a worship service and listen to the church choir sing four times a week.
Final Thought
Dublin makes a popular tourist attraction because of the striking combination of ancient structures and modern architecture. On top of this, foggy patches tend to come over the city frequently, providing it with an almost mystical effect.
Keep in mind that it is not possible to see everything worthwhile in one brief visit, so one should make sure to plan ahead of time and pick out the top spots that attract one’s personal interests.