Dublin, Ireland's capital is a warm and welcoming city. It offers unique historical experiences as well as a culturally rich experience. The city boasts over 1000 years' worth of history. It is surrounded on all sides by mountains and a stream. Historic buildings and vibrant art fill the streets, as well as hip cafes.
Dublin Castle is an ancient medieval fortress dating back to 1204. The castle was built in Norman style. It was used as a venue for state banquets and balls. In 1673, and 1684 fires destroyed the castle. In Georgian style, the castle was rebuilt. It was given to the Irish government in 1922. It is now a museum that focuses on social history and destitution from the early 20th century.
The Castle houses a Norman Record Tower, dating back to 1258. The Victorian Chapel Royal can also be found here. On the Castle grounds are also located the Georgian Treasury Building, and Revenue Commissioners Building. There are beautiful parks and food stalls throughout the grounds. The Castle complex is home to several museums.
Dublin Castle has a library. The library contains over 20,000 manuscripts and costumes as well as rare books. The museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, including weaponry and folk-life displays. This guided tour lasts for 75 minutes and provides interesting detail.
The Book of Kells contains illuminated manuscripts of all four gospels. This manuscript is only limited in number. One of Dublin's most photographed rooms is the Long Room. It houses the Book of Kells. This room is also filled with the library's oldest and rarest books.
It also houses a vast collection of ceramics as well as glassware. There are also thousands upon thousands of manuscripts including the Francis Bacon ones. Sir Alfred Chester Beatty left his library to the Irish State when he died. It contains miniature paintings, costumes, as well as rare books.
The Holy Trinity, also known by the name Christ Church is Dublin's oldest medieval cathedral. The cathedral, originally a wooden chapel, was rebuilt in 1172. It is also the seat of the Church of Ireland in Dublin. Its architecture blends Gothic, Romanesque, as well as Victorian elements.
During the Famine, urban overcrowding in Ireland became a reality. The number of Irish deaths was greatly affected by the famine and the tuberculosis epidemic. It was not possible to control the epidemic until the twentieth century. In the 19th century, tuberculosis rates in Dublin were about the same as in London. It was also a deadly disease that led to death and morbidity.
Dublin is also known for its famous "old men" pubs. This is not the only reason to visit Dublin, but it is a good reason to go. Dublin boasts many hip cafes as well as the famed pubs. The city also has WiFi in most coffee shops. Dublin's summer months are the best because of the smaller crowds and moderate prices. The weather can be cooler in the fall.