Dublin is the capital of Ireland in Europe. Visiting Dublin will be life changing experience because the city thrives on history and arts. It is wedged in the midst of Howth and Dalkey. Just like the landscape of Nigeria, Dublin is divided by a river called Liffey. The city of Dublin owns the spectacular O’Connell bridge, which is a tourist favourite. In the centuries pasts, Dublin was among the cities of the British Empire, the city is surrounded by colourful landscape and architectural building of historical elegance.
It is worthy of note that the city has produced some of the most famous literary figures which include Yeats, Beckett, Joyce, Shaw, and Wilde. It was nicked ‘the city of world literature’ by UNESCO in 2010. Evidence of literary prowess of the city which dates back to A.D 800 is found in the display of The book of Kells at the Trinity college. Dublin is best explored by foot, the city has grown a tourist-friendly transport network that is very convenient to tour the city with.
Dublin is a city that will never fail to put a smile on your face, now let’s find out the top places a Nigerian should visit in Dublin
Book of Kells & Old Library
Don’t forget to visit this library at the Trinity College. It holds it’s ground as one of the greatest cultural hubs in the world. One of the most valuable artifacts that encompass the treasure of Dublin is the Book of Kell, an exciting manuscript of some books of the bible. The work was completed by monks in the year AD 800 on the island of Iona in Scotland.
The library itself has a tinge of history in it. The building date back to 1712, where the stones of the building was laid under the guidance of Thomas Burgh. And over 190,000 books can be found in the library. Other artifacts that might interest you include a rarefied Irish Proclamation copy, the harp of Brain Boru amongst others.
National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History
In those days, the building was the biggest barracks in the world. The building, which still maintains its beautiful neoclassical design, was finished in 1704. It was designed by Burgh of the old library. It currently houses Ireland’s national museum, where there is a fine display of the works of ace designer, Eileen Gray. This would surely catch your fancy.
You will find an extensive exhibition of ceramics, glassware, and silver to furniture, folk-life and weaponry collection. The sighting of Jewellery and cloth-wear of ancient Ireland will make your trip unforgettable. The museum will also be important for those who need a socio-cultural study of the Irish people. You will find a cool symbolic material that represents shades of the Irish people.
Dublin City Gallery – the Hugh Lane
Dublin stores some of the world’s most spectacular art displays. Visit the Hugh Lane Gallery and you will discover that this is true. The elegant gallery is located in the awe-inspiring Charlemont house.
On entering the building, your eyes will be blessed by some of the greatest artwork of modern Ireland. Some timeless impressionist arts and the works of the influential philosopher, Francis Bacon can be found here.
Trinity College
Trinity college is the most reputable university in Ireland and it is a place where an intellectual mind will enjoy, it is among the most impressive centres of learning. In its early days, students were passionately taught the love of empire and assorted philosophical ideologies. Alumni include Jonathan swift, Oscar Wilde and the rest.
On a visit to the college, prepare to be amazed by the fantastic architectural design and landscape. The institution takes pride in it Georgian outlook.
National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
This museum was opened in toward the late 1880’s to store the archaeological artifact of Ireland. It has now emerged as the most significant cultural establishment. It houses Ireland’s most popular historical artifact. Inside the building are some of Europe’s most beautiful Bronze and Iron age collection.
You will also find Celtic decorative artifact consisting of beautiful jewelry and ornamental tools from long centuries ago.
Guinness Storehouse
Guinness Storehouse is a unique tourist attraction and very popular in Dublin. It pays homage to the greatest brewer, Guinness. Learn the totality of the Guinness brewery and culture during your visit and then head to the gravity bar at the first floor to have a chill drink of Guinness and enjoy the spectacular views. There are also good restaurants with excellent meal around the building.
You will also find a nice display of audiovisual and interactive educational material that will enable you to learn much about every feature of the history of the brewery and the process of brewing. The brewery does not only thrive on quality beer, but by the power of highly effective marketing and advertising technique, as you will note.
St. Stephens Green Centre
A simple walk from Grafton street will bring you to this park. There are beautiful buildings around the park, but the park itself is an oasis from the high-rolling city. You will find peace and relaxation here anytime, anyway. You can relax by stretching on the grass or enjoy a picnic.
Perfect flowerbed and lawn decorate the scenery. You will also find a duck pound, a unique fountain and playground for the children.
Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo
The Pheonix park is the biggest enclosed park in Europe. This might come as a surprise since Dublin is not a big city. Thousands of deer wander around the park. You will also find the official residence of Ireland’s president and the house of the Ambassador from United States.
Since centuries ago, people of the city and foreigners alike enjoy visiting Dublin zoo. It is estimated that it’s attraction base is over one million visitors each year since the beginning of the 1800s. It is among the oldest zoo in the world. If you visit the zoo, you will discover the beauty of animals by sighting rare and unique species and breeds. You can find Lions, Monkeys, reptiles, snakes, penguins and seals here. Other interesting features of the zoo includes a playing ground, farm and a good restaurant.
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Photo Credit: Collen 200, Ireland-Guide, Guinness