 Dublin Castle 
Dublin Castle - The Pride of the Irish
Recommendation added: 06/11/2006 14:18
By: velvet202 (YSUK rating +187)velvet202 has been thanked 4 times for this contribution
"The most famous castle of Ireland is located within the City of one of Europe's busiest metropolises on the South side of the river Liffey, and is being visited by thousands of tourists each year. Dating back to the 9th century, it boasts of having been influenced by many cultures, including the Vikings and the Normans, a fact which is visible in the many architectural styles and ornaments of the buildings. The rooms are home of many historical artifacts, furniture, materials and ornaments – and even some ghosts.
Dublin Castle is the 'Pride of the Irish' as it stands for cultural diversity and provides an excellent historical insight into Irish traditions and developments. The castle has played a major role in politics throughout history and still continues to do so nowadays as it holds all major tribunals and all official state events, including presidential inaugurations and ceremonies.
Upon entering the building, right above the entrance archway, one will see the statue of justice, which supposedly stands for the Irish faith in their ability to rule their own country without English influence. At the reception, one is invited to wait his turn for the two-hour guide of this huge castle. Although two hours are not very long for as much as there is to see, the long narratives of history can be quite tiresome and it is worth falling behind and admiring the sight in your own pace whenever one needs to switch off.
The highlight of the tour are the State Apartments located within the Great Courtyard as they offer a stunning display or richness and colour mingled with a broad history of Celtic influence. The Chapel Royal, also known as the King's Chapel, is built in Gothic style with plenty of vaults, high windows and dark, carved oaks and is the second highlight of the tour. The tour also includes the Chester Beatty Library, where you will find artistic treasures of various cultures and religions of the world in the form of books and manuscripts that date back many centuries, and the Coach House, where most exhibitions are now located. Although the tour itself is very interesting, you may find it more rewarding to talk to locals about the castle and its history as you will hear many a story that you won't find in any guide book. The Irish are friendly people and very proud of their culture and will spend hours keeping you entertained with historical stories.
Visiting Dublin Castle is a must for everyone interested in history and old buildings, and should be included in any sightseeing tour of Dublin and the surrounding area.
To get there is easy. Just take a flight to Dublin and stay in one of the old hotels situated around and within the city. It is open for guided tours only from Mondays to Fridays, 10am to 4.45pm and Saturday and Sunday, as well as on public holidays, from 2pm to 4.45pm. Prices are very cheap and vary from Euro 4.50 for adults, Euro 3.50 for students and seniors and children under 12 can enter for Euro 2.00."
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