The city of Dublin takes it name from the Gaelic ‘Dubh Linn’ meaning the Black Pool which was on the site where the castle gardens now stand. Over the years Dublin has been inhabited by the Vikings and the English but is now an independent country. There are many places to visit on a trip to this vast city but five places not to be missed on a trip to Dublin are:
1.The Guinness Storehouse
Dublin’s number one attraction must surely be the Guinness Storehouse where the world famous black drink is produced. If stopping off here when touring on the open-topped bus, make sure you buy a combined bus and Storehouse ticket which allows you priority access to the building and saves you from queuing for a very long time to buy a ticket at the door. It also saves you on the entrance fee. Once inside the seven story complex, you can view the original brewery lease allowing Arthur Guinness access to the property for 9000 years. Moving further through the exhibition you will discover the four ingredients required to make the brew as well as viewing some of the machinery of yester-year. You can also discover the various advertising campaigns used over the centuries or test your knowledge about alcohol with various games. Reach the seventh floor and you will be eligible to enjoy a free sample of the elixir as you view the city from the 360 degree circular room. Finish your tour by browsing the market place where you can buy a souvenir of your trip here.
2. Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Another must see attraction on a visit to Dublin is the illuminated manuscript of the Book of Kells, now housed in Trinity College. The book is sometimes referred to as The Book of Columba and contains the first four gospels of the New Testament. It was composed in Latin and is believed to have been created around 800 AD in a Columbian Monastery. It takes its name from the Abbey of Kells where it was once housed. The Library usually displays two volumes at a time, one showing a major illustration and the other showing typical text pages. The Book of Kells is a true historical icon
3. Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is used as a government complex, a conference centre, and tourist attraction. The castle was built in 1230 by King John. Over the years it has been put to use as a fortification against invaders, for governmental purposes, as a Royal Mint and police headquarters. Explore the gardens and many rooms such as the State Apartments, the State Drawing Room, the Chapel Royal, the Medieval Undercroft, and the Throne Room. This is the place to be if you would like to know more about the history of this amazing city.
4. The Temple Bar
Pubs, galleries, restaurants and Irish music can all be experienced in the cultural heart of Dublin known as the Temple Bar. The Temple Bar is a square on the south bank of the River Liffy with narrow cobbled streets and lanes leading off in all directions where you can soak in the carnival atmosphere of buskers, street artists, open air markets and much more. Perhaps you might just wish to sit in a café and watch the world go by. Every Saturday the square comes alive to the sights and sounds of the food market where fresh fruit, vegetables, oysters and cheeses are sold. Literary buffs can wander round the corner to browse the books on the stalls of the Book Market. However, best of all are the smells of the different international foods on offer in the myriad of restaurants. At night, the Temple Bar comes alive to the sound of traditional Irish music. This melting pot of cultures is an atmospheric area not to be missed.
5. Retail Outlets
Dublin is a shopaholic’s paradise with streets stretching off in all directions across the city. Regular High Street labels, unique boutiques, malls, markets and book stalls are all within walking distance of the various areas of the city. Pedestrianised Grafton Street that begins at St. Stephen’s Green shopping centre and ends with a statue of Molly Malone is sought out by serious shoppers seeking a bargain. If you are lucky you might even encounter a pianist playing a baby grand piano on the street or stop to admire the many buskers and street artists seeking your attention. Take the time to savour a coffee in the Marks and Spencer’s roof top café from where you will have a panoramic view of the city. Return to the serious task of shopping and you will be sure to find what you are looking for in the countless number of outlets available to the discerning visitor.
O’Connell Street
A visit to Dublin will leave you with many fond memories of a buzzing, vibrant city where you will encounter new experiences around every corner and a wish to return in the future.