Dublin’s history dates back to the times of the Vikings. Since then, various turbulent events have taken place in this part of Ireland, shaping it to what it is today. Here are some of the historical sites in Dublin that can make you travel back in time:
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Historical Sites in Dublin – Caisleán Bhaile Átha Cliath
Commonly known as Dublin Castle, Caisleán Bhaile Átha Cliath was the seat of the British government administration in Ireland until 1922. It was originally erected as a defensive fort after the Normans invaded Ireland in the 12th century. Over the years, it became an official residence, a meeting venue for the parliament, a law court, a military garrison, and an intelligence services base. It was also here where the first president of Ireland was inaugurated.
Historical Sites in Dublin – Dublinia
This living history museum recreates the Viking and medieval past of Dublin. Located at Christ Church Cathedral’s Synod Hall, it attracts over a hundred visitors each year who are encouraged to participate in the historical re-enactments.
Historical Sites in Dublin – Glasnevin Cemetery
Consecrated and opened in 1832, Glasnevin Cemetery was initially called Prospect Cemetery. The first to be buried here was Michael Carey, an eleven year-old from Dublin’s Francis Street. There are several historically notable memorials and graves in this cemetery. Among the most prominent include those of Daniel O’Connell, Charles Stewart Parnell, Arthur Griffith, Maud Gonne MacBride, Kevin Gerard Barry and Patrick O’Donnell.
Irish National War Memorial Gardens
In memory of 49,400 Irish soldiers who perished in the Great War of 1914 to 1918, the Irish National War Memorial Gardens was born. It is also a memorial for all the Irish people who served in the Irish regiments of the Allied Armies against the Central Powers in WWI.
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Kilmainham Gaol
Formerly a prison, Kilmainham Gaol has become a museum dedicated to Irish nationalism. Built in 1796, it has witnessed several public hangings. It also has a dark history of not segregating prisoners – up to 5 men, women and children were incarcerated in a single cell. Several Irish rebellion leaders were imprisoned here, including Charles Stewart Parnell, Oliver Bond, Anne Devlin, Thomas Clarke and Madeleine ffrench-Mullen.
Malahide Castle
Malahide Castle started in 1185 and the oldest parts of the present structure date back to the 12th century. For more than 700 years, the Talbot family resided in this castle. The towers of the castle were added in 1765, during Edward IV’s reign. During WWI, the castle grounds were used as an airship mooring-out base.
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
The foundations of the current structure of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral date back to the 12th century. In mid-19th century, a Celtic cross believed to have marked a holy well was discovered near the cathedral and is now on display. There were more than 500 people interred in Saint Patrick’s Cathedral – below its floors and in its graveyard. Among the most notable were Sir John Blennerhassett, Frederick Schomberg, Sir Jerome Alexander and Thomas Cromwell.
The Casino at Marino
No, it’s not a place for gambling. The Casino at Marino is a small house which is the only remainder of the 18th century Marino Estate in Dublin. It has a high place in the architectural history of Ireland, featuring a Neo-Classical style that is in stark contrast to the castles that it is most known for.
The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity
More popularly known as Christ Church Cathedral, it is said to be founded in the 11th century. During the Victorian times, the cathedral went through extensive renovations and has contributed to what is presently a combination of medieval and later church construction. Christ Church Cathedral is also well-known for its 12th century crypt. It houses several monuments and objects of history, including the oldest known lay carvings in the country.
The Old Library of Trinity College Dublin
An academic library that serves Trinity College and University of Dublin, it was established in 1661, along with the founding of Trinity College. It is the permanent home of several historic pieces, including the Book of Kells, the Brian Boru harp, and a duplicate of 1916’s Proclamation of the Irish Republic.
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