National Museum Of Ireland

If you want to discover some of Ireland's secrets you need to visit the National Museum of Ireland. Did you know, for instance, that some of the richest ancient gold treasures in Europe were found in Ireland and date back as much as 4,200 years?

On this link you can buy Dublin pass which includes entry to the Museum of Ireland.

The National Museum Of Ireland has split its extensive collection into two main themes: Archeaology focuses on Ireland's rich Celtic heritage and Decorative Arts & History examines the vibrant role of Ireland throughout modern history. The Archaeology Museum and the Decorative Arts & History Museum are both conveniently located in the city centre of Dublin and worth a visit.

Archaeology
The National Museum Of Ireland's Archaeology branch in Dublin hosts one of the largest exhibitions of prehistoric gold jewellery in Europe. The unique, abstract designs on these pieces include some of the most breath-taking examples of ancient Celtic art.

Huge, crescent shaped neck collars or 'lunulae', chunky bracelets and substantial dress-fasteners make up the largest part of the jewellery pieces on display. Gold was hammered paper thin or shaped into solid bars and elegantly twisted.

The craftsmanship is amazing, particularly when you consider that the oldest pieces in the collection date back to 2200BC, the 'youngest' artefacts are from 500BC.

Opening Times And Prices
The Archaeology branch of the National Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00 and Sunday from 14:00 to 17:00. Admission to the museum is free.

How To Get To The National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology
The Archaeology museum is within easy walking distance from Trinity College, the Grafton Street main shopping area, St Stephen's Green and most city centre hotels. It is literally only a short five minute walk from either Trinity or St Stephen's Green to the National Museum's Archaeology building on Kildare Street. You can take the Green Luas to St Stephen's Green and walk, or you can take bus 7, 7a, 10, 11 or 13 from O'Connell Street.

Decorative Arts & History
Ireland's influence on the Western World as we know it is often overlooked. The National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History highlights some of the contributions Ireland made throughout the centuries

From Irish mercenaries in various wars in Europe and the Americas, the Irish Brigades, to modernist 20th century designer Eileen Gray, the National Museum has many fascinating stories to tell.

Gray created iconic furniture in the 1920s and 1930s such as the adjustable chrome table 'E-1027' and the 'Bibendum' chair. At the height of her fame, Gray was asked by Le Corbusier to exhibit in his pavilion at the Paris World Fair in 1937.

The museum's choice of exhibits is eclectic and never dull. Housed in the impressive grounds of former army barracks, the Collins Barracks, the museum is situated on the quays of the River Liffey.

Opening Times And Prices
The Decorative Arts & History branch of the National Museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 to 17:00, and on Sunday from 14:00 to 17:00. Admission to the museum is free. Special events and guest exhibitions may carry a small charge.

How To Get To The National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & Design
The Decorative Arts & History museum is located at Collins Barracks in Benburb Street. The Red Luas line's 'Museum' stop is right outside the main gate. Heuston Station is literally across the river from the museum and you can walk between the two in less than 10 minutes. From the city centre, you can take bus 90 from Aston Quay or buses 25, 25a, 66 and 67 from Wellington Quay.