Dublin is the official capital of the Republic of Ireland. Cosmopolitan, young and lively, Dublin city has experienced unprecedented growth for several years, and has become a European city in its own right, advocating multiculturalism and economic dynamism. There is no shortage of activities, and this city is a real paradise for tourism. Whether it is for a weekend in Dublin, or for a more in-depth discovery of the city, Dublin never ceases to amaze travelers from all over the World with the quality of its tourist attractions! Here is a presentation of this colorful capital but which has nevertheless kept its human scale…
We find the very first references to Dublin from 140 AD by Ptolemy: the city was at the time called Eblana, and was probably a small fishing and farming village, built not far from the Liffey river.
It was not until the ninth century that a city was built on this very spot, and dubbed “Dubh Linn” by the Vikings. They then built an imposing fort on the site of Dublin Castle (the Dublin Castle).
From 1213, Dublin fell into the hands of the Anglo-Normans, who then took the opportunity to build a new castle on the orders of King John: Dublin Castle, a castle still intact to this day.
The Irish-British conflict continued until the 20th century, when a revolt was organized in 1916, known as the Bloody Easter, to fight against the British army. Although this insurrection was ultimately a failure, and the city suffered a lot of damage (destroyed buildings, many dead etc …), Dublin carries this date as a major event in Irish history.
Dublin is now one of the most visited places in Ireland! We like its museums (many of which are free), its castle, its Liffey river which crosses the city, its whiskey distilleries, its Irish beer breweries (including the famous Guinness Storehouse), its ultra-trendy Temple Bar district, its Irish pubs, restaurants – new flagships of Irish cuisine – colorful doors, Georgian-style buildings … not to mention its many festivals held throughout the year!
Because let’s not forget that Dublin is THE “capital to be” where to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day, Irish national day celebrated every March 17! Do not miss its Grande Parade, its concerts, its extraordinary activities: the atmosphere is festive and conducive to meeting Dubliners!
Dublin is today a capital like no other.
Active, dynamic, it especially has the advantage of having kept its human size. The distances are easy to cover thanks to its bus network, its tram (the Luas), and the DART (equivalent to the Paris RER).
People cultivate a very pleasant way of life, where the human is at the center of everything. Dubliners are cool and trendy, but remain warm, accessible, and take the time to help travelers with questions or problems.
So, don’t hesitate to explore Dublin at your own pace! Push the door of its museums and establishments: you will find there an authentic, unreserved and picturesque city, pleasant to discover!