Dublin, Ireland: Famous Tourist Attractions
If you are traveling to Ireland, you have to see Dublin, of course, not only because it is the capital of the Republic of Ireland, but also because it has its own distinct attraction as a dynamic city where the older and newer generations form a cohesive collision.
Since the 1990's, Dublin has become a city to reckon with in terms of economic growth. Because of that, millions of people from the country and abroad are lured to this dynamic city. It exudes an aura of sophistication and style like any cosmopolitan capital in Europe, but it holds a distinct blend of ancient and modern cultures. This article explores some places in Dublin that tourists find appealing, fascinating and mystical.
* The Dublin Castle. This Anglo-Norman castle was built in the 13th century and was burned down in 1684. It was Sir William Robinson who decided to have it reconstructed to what it is now - no defense fortresses and aimed to provide a modern seat of government offices. The only part of it considered to be truly medieval is the Record Tower. It is quite a striking building complex that can be visited only through a guided tour. Even then, only the State Apartments can be visited inside the structure, but the outside is generally open to the public.
* Trinity College and Library. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, Trinity College is a dominant structure in the landscape and the ancient edifices of Dublin up to this day. Trinity College Library houses over a million books and valuable manuscripts, the "Book of Kells", being the most internationally known. Should you visit this place in summer, you may find yourself in a long queue to get in.
*General Post Office and O'Connell Street . Actually considered the widest city street in Europe, O'Connell Street is Dublin's main thoroughfare. It boasts of magnificent statues, monuments and impressive houses. But its main attraction is the General Post Office where the 1916 rebellion took place. It was rebuilt and a statue of Cuchullain was constructed in memory of the fallen heroes.
* The National Museums. As a tourist, you should go to Dublin's two most famous museums. The National Museums of Archaeology and History along Kildare Street in Dublin 2 offers relics from Ireland's prehistoric and medieval past. You should see the latest exhibit tagged as "Kingship & Sacrifice". Other museums to go to are the National Museums History and Decorative Arts in Collins Barracks. Located in Benburb Street, Dublin 7, this museum is home to a diverse collection, which includes Michael Collins' uniform when he was gunned down. It also houses an exhibit of the Easter Rising.
* Temple Bar Area. Considered to be the hub of cosmopolitan chic with its many pubs, restaurants and galleries, the Temple Bar area can be viewed as a "bohemian district".
* The National Gallery. Located right in the heart of Dublin at Merrion Square West, this gallery is home to Irish and European art. It was opened in 1864 and contains around 500 works of European art. Among the various artworks on display are by Monet, Poussin, Goya, El Greco Picasso, Hogarth, Gainsborough and many others.
* Kilmainham Gaol. Located along Inchicore Road, this is among Europe's most notorious prisons. The 1916 rebellion leaders were executed here, a fact which is always emphasized during guided tours.
These are just some of Dublin's attractions. There are a lot more depending on your tastes and interests. You may visit the Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world as well as the location of the President's Residence and the zoo. There are other galleries and museums too. You just have to have enough time to visit all these exciting places and you will experience everything Dublin, Ireland has to offer.
