The National Museum of Ireland – Archeology is a large institution that pays homage to the country’s extensive past. It contains vast collections of fascinating relics from Ireland and elsewhere dating from 7,000 B.C. to the 1900s. Make your way through seven galleries to understand how Ireland came to be.
Admire the Victorian Palladian style of the building, with its neoclassical colonnade, domed rotunda and beautiful mosaic floors. Take a guided tour for a wider context or family tours for a fun day with kids. Explore the Treasury exhibits of the riches and gems of previous civilizations. Inspect the Ardagh Chalice, an intricate metal cup made by early Irish Christians in the 8th century. The Tara Brooch held clothes together in the 700s.
Among the most intriguing exhibits is the Faddan More Psalter. Learn about this piece of papyrus that proves contact between Ireland and the Mediterranean region in the early Middle Ages. Another highlight is the Cross of Cong, which dates back to 1123. Learn how the high king of Ireland commissioned this shrine to hold part of the True Cross on which Christ died. This alleged piece has long been lost.
Examine the objects in the Viking Ireland display. Marvel at Scandinavian silver and note the fusion of Irish and Viking styles over the years. Purchase books from the upscale shop that also has jewelry, DVDs and greeting cards. The Museum Café offers a relaxing setting with refreshments and meals.
Stroll through the trees in the spacious square on the southern flank of the museum. Enjoy a picnic and watch people pass in front of the Archbishop Statue.
The museum closes on Mondays but is otherwise open daily from morning to late afternoon with later opening times on Sundays. Enter the museum for free.
The National Museum of Ireland – Archeology stands next to the natural history branch in the southern part of the city center. Walk south for 15 minutes from the O’Connell Bridge to reach the complex. Pass the Irish Houses of Parliament and Trinity College on the way.
