Top Five Cultural Attractions in Dublin
Dublin is a traditionally historic city with settlements dating back to the Viking ages. If you’re into heritage and culture and want to learn more about Dublin’s rich history there are a wealth of sites and attractions to get your fix, both in and out of Dublin city centre. We decided to put our heads together and come with five of our top cultural attractions in Dublin. From 12th century castles, to iconic cathedrals, there’s something for everyone – and what’s more, it’s all free with a Dublin Pass. Now, who’s coming? Malahide Castle Malahide Castle is a stunning 12th century castle on the North Dublin coast in the picturesque seaside village of Malahide. Take a step back in time and explore the beautiful castle fully restored with period furniture. Visitors can take a tour of the old Talbot family home, through the castle rooms and admire the Rococo décor, Georgian style and Neo-Classical themes throughout this historic house. Malahide Castle is famous for the role it played in the Battle of Boyne; and visitors can learn more about this through the exhibition and timeline. Don’t forget to take a walk through the estate and gardens before you go; with four acres of walled garden it’s a gorgeous way to finish off your trip. Christ Church Cathedral Christ Church Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Dublin and a true historic site. As the spiritual centre and heart of the city, Christ Church is an important landmark to visit. This stunning Gothic Medieval Church dates back to 1030. Its Gothic nave is of significant beauty and the crypt houses the Treasures containing the mummified ‘cat and the rat’ and is said to be the largest crypt in Britain and Ireland. If you’re clever, plan a visit during one of the Evensong to experience something really special. This celestial choir is the most prestigious in Dublin whose institution dates back over 500 years! St Patrick’s Cathedral Dublin’s second cathedral, St Patrick’s Cathedral takes its name from Dublin’s patron saint and is considered one of the most important historic landmarks in the capital. St Patrick’s Cathedral is breath-taking with its stained glass windows, alter and monuments and you’ll be pushed to see anything like it! Believed to sit on the site of an ancient well where St Patrick used to carry out baptisms, there is plenty to learn about Dublin’s spiritual past at this historic attraction. Stop by one of the two daily services if you can to see the cathedral's longstanding traditions in today's world. Kilmainham Gaol Forget the naughty step, Kilmainham Gaol had a reputation as being one of the strictest centres of punishment in the country for over 200 years. Visitors can take a tour of this historic correctional facility and learn about the harrowing conditions under which prisoners were kept. Hear tales of crimes and criminals, including some of the country’s leading rebels of the 1916 Rising. Kilmainham Gaol is an important monument to visit as it played an important part in the history of Irish National Independence. One of its inmates was even the first Prime Minister, DeValera. Dublin City Hall Dublin City Hall is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in Dublin and dates back to the late 1700s, now telling the story of social change through the ages. Visitors can see the ‘Story of the Capital’ exhibition in the vaults underneath and take a self-guided tour through the historic and modern day Dublin. Architecturally, it’s one of the most impressive buildings in Dublin city centre with its granite, classic Rotunda and mosaic of the city’s arms and motto.