Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle has stood at the heart of the city and of Irish power for eight centuries, from a Norman fortress through the long seat of British rule in Ireland to its handover to the new Irish state in 1922. Now a mix of medieval tower, Georgian courtyards and grand State Apartments, it hosts state occasions and is open to visitors.

Background

In Irish the castle is Caisleán Bhaile Átha Cliath. Meiler Fitzhenry founded it in 1204 at the command of King John of England, choosing the highest point of central Dublin for a motte-and-bailey castle. By 1230 it was largely complete, a Norman courtyard plan with no keep, tall walls and a round tower at each corner. It stood beside the dark pool, Dubh Linn, that gave the city its name, on the River Poddle near where it meets the Liffey, and both rivers helped defend it. The Poddle now runs beneath the complex. From the late 17th century the castle was mostly rebuilt as a Georgian palace, and the Dubhlinn Gardens were completed in 1680.

Source: Wikipedia, "Dublin Castle"

Highlights

• The State Apartments - the grand rooms used for state occasions.
• The Chapel Royal - the ornate castle chapel.
• The medieval undercroft - the excavated remains of the original fortress.
• The courtyards - the Georgian squares free to wander.

When to go

Year-round; a fully indoor set of sights good in any weather, though rooms may close for state functions. The courtyards are free to walk any time.

Things to know

As a working state building, the grand rooms may close for official events. The State Apartments are a paid, sometimes guided visit, while the courtyards are free. It is a layered historic site rather than a fairy-tale castle.

Nearby

The Chester Beatty library, Christ Church Cathedral and Temple Bar are a short walk.

Key facts