The History Of Dublin Castle

Dublin castle was the seat of the British Rule until1922. The majority of the building dates from the eighteenth century however a castle has always been situated there since the days of King John, the first Lord of Ireland. The castle fulfilled a number of roles, the foremost being a royal residence where the Viceroy of Ireland (representative of the monarch) resided.

The Viceregal apartments, which are now named the state apartments, are to be the most superb sites in Dublin and is the location where the inauguration of the President of Ireland takes place. Dublin castle also housed the offices of the chief secretary for Ireland and over the year’s parliament and law offices met there until other venues became available.

Dublin castle is probably most known for housing the Irish Crown Jewels until they were stolen in 1907. During the civil war the castle was the center of the British efforts against Irish separation. On Bloody Sunday in 1920 two IRA soldiers and a friend of theirs were shot dead trying to escape.

Since 1922 it has ceased to be used for government purposes and is now a great tourist attraction. From a past refurbishment it is now also used as a conference center. The Crypt of the Chapel Royal is now used as an arts center. Areas to be seen in the castle would be St Patrick’s Hall a huge ballroom where the inaugurations of the president takes place, the Throne Room which contains a throne from the reign of King William II and of course the Viceregal Apartments, the last person to stay in the royal apartments was Margaret Thatcher in 1979.

Dublin castle also host a lot of cultural events and News, including the Chester Beatty Library, Music Network and open air concerts to big names such as Aslan, the beautiful South, Tracy Chapman, Divine Comedy and so on.

Tourists can also receive guided tours around the castle (please see below for times and opening hours) and can take a break in the gift shop or have some lunch or a snack in either The Castle Vaults Bistro or The Silk Road Café.

The Castle is very majestic and will soon have you captivated with its lengthily history and stories, young and old will thoroughly enjoy a day out in Dublin Castle.