Dublin Castle:  One of the Most Important Historical Sites in Ireland

As you might guess, Dublin Castle is located right in the heart of the city of Dublin. It's also, unsurprisingly, in Dublin County in Leinster Province.

If you want to see this castle in Eastern Ireland and you're coming from Dublin Airport, the journey shouldn't take more than about 20 minutes.

Just follow road signs via the M1 and the M50 to the city center, and then head down Cork Hill until you spot the grand Dublin Castle up ahead.    

Things to Know About Dublin Castle

Here are some fun facts about this amazing Irish landmark.  Hopefully they will entice you to pay a visit in person!

But if that is not possible, you can always use them to impress your friends with your knowledge of one of the most-visited attractions in Ireland.

• One of the most-visited Irish castles is Dublin Castle, most of which was built in the 18th century.

• However, a castle has stood on the site in Dublin County since as far back as the 12th century, and until 1922 it was the seat of UK's government administration in Ireland.

• It has served as an administrative building, a fortress and even a royal residence throughout history.

• Today, visitors can take guided tours through the Castle, seeing the famed state corridor, Saint Patrick's hall and the throne room in the process.

• Dublin Castle has always been associated with British rule over Ireland. The castle was first erected for King John, the very first Lord of Ireland all the way back in the 12th century.

• The original castle was built in the traditional Norman style. It had a courtyard design, a central square, tall defensive walls and a tower at each of the castle's four corners.

• Throughout the Middle Ages, the Castle changed substantially. Perhaps the most interesting addition was the Great Hall, which was built with stone as well as timber.

• In 1684, a fire tore through the castle and created a lot of damage. Lots of rebuilding was required, and much of what was built at the beginning of the 18th century still stands today.

• Today, the Castle is not a formal seat of government. However, it's used for important state meetings, and many visiting dignitaries tour the castle on their visits.

• When visiting the castle, don't miss the Chester Beatty Library. The library's collection boasts a huge range of ancient texts, historic documents and fascinating manuscripts.

• The crypt of the Chapel Royal is now an arts centre. Although it sometimes requires a separate admission, it has a cool atmosphere and boasts an impressive collection of works.

• Despite the famed walls that surround the castle, many crimes have taken place within. In 1907, the Irish Crown Jewels were stolen from the Castle and have still never been recovered. 

• Although there are self-guided tours of the Castle, the guided tours are the best option. This allows you to get lots of great information about the castle and grants you access to the Viking Excavation exhibit.

• Within the stone walls of the castle, and directly south of the State Apartments, you'll find the Castle Gardens. These are absolutely worth a visit, and they contain a number of beautiful sculptures. 

You can find more information about this important Irish landmark here.

Want More Irish Castles?

It is probably obvious - at Irish Expressions, we love Irish castles!  The Emerald Isle is dotted with hundreds of these incredible structures.  

Sharing pictures and stories about them gives us a deeper sense of connection with Ireland, wherever in the world we happen to be!

We have captured the most amazing pictures and descriptions of Irish castles in an e-book we call "An Illustrated Guide to Irish Castles and Abbeys."

This fun, free guide is available to you to download.  Scroll to the bottom of this page to get instant access!

That Was Fun!  Where Can I See More?

Great question! As you can see, exploring the castles of Ireland offers many opportunities for enjoying an Irish experience and expressing your personal Irish side!

For more information of this kind, you might pay a visit to our section on Ireland Sightseeing here!

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