Dublin

The Irish call it Baile Atha Cliath or the “Town of the Hurdled Ford,” but the world knows it as ‘Dublin,’ the capital of the Republic of Ireland. A great historical city, Dublin today is one of the most important financial centers of the world. It is also fast developing into a major tourist destination. Situated near the River Liffey, Dublin is a relatively small place, and the best way to see it is on foot.

Though the city of Dublin traces its origins to the First century BC, the city is said to be established by the Norse in about 841 BC. The city turned into a military power after the Norman Invasion of Ireland. The Dublin Caste had an important part to play during this time. You can tour the Dublin castle even today and acquaint yourself to this city’s past. You can know more about the history of Dublin by visiting the National Museum of Ireland. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, most of it dating back to the 17th century. It is also famous all over the world for being home to literary giants such as George Bernard Shaw, W.B.Yeats, Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett, and Oscar Wilde. Therefore, do make a point to visit the National Print Museum of Ireland. You can also visit the Chester Beatty Library for a glimpse into some of the oldest manuscripts and sacred texts of Ireland. Visiting the Dublin Writers’ Museum is a must for all bookworms. Dublin is also home to the famous creator of Dracula, Bram Stoker. You can go through a chilling description of Stoker’s life at the Bram Stoker’s Museum.

If you can’t get enough of this historical city, then go to Kilmainham Gaol. This is the place where prisoners of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed. After a hectic day full of sightseeing, relax by sipping on Dublin’s own Guinness. If you are interested, you can take a tour of the Guinness Storehouse. You can even indulge in some shopping out here in Dublin. Grafton Street is the most famous shopping street here. You can visit the Powerscourt Centre, a shopping centre set inside a restored 18th century town house. Don’t forget to pick up some Irish jewelry from here.