Dublin Castle is one of the prime attractions of the picturesque Irish city, Dublin. This castle was built between 1208 and 1220. This complex like structure constitutes of some of the antique architecture in the city. During the time of its establishment, it was the predominant seat of English power in Ireland for more than seven centuries. Later it was overtaken by the Irish Free State in 1922. The prime sites of this complex includes the 13th-century Record Tower, Undercroft, Norman Castle, the State Apartments and many others.
The location of Dublin Castle is in the very center of historic Dublin, River Liffey falls on its south, off the Dame Street and very close to the Trinity College and Christ Church Cathedral. The Castle stands elegantly on the highest ground of the locality, at the confluence point of the River Liffey and its tributary Poddle, which is presently an underground flow.
Historical Information about Dublin Castle
A Danish Viking Fortress stood on the present site of the castle in the 930's. The settlement, that developed around was known as Dyflinn and very soon became the post for the Viking military base and a lucrative trading center of slaves and silver. After the Norman invasion in 1169. The Vikings were expelled off the land and the Normans occupied the settlement of Dyflinn or Dublin. They further fortified and expanded the existing town walls and establishment. Their first fortification was probably made of earth, wooden structures, motte and bailey, which is preserved as the present day Dublin Castle. There are archaeological evidences of castles made of wood and stone dating back to the 1170's.
In 1204, King John of England decreed the erection of a stronger and larger castle to withstand the attacks on the city. This was also the center for administration of justice and security of national treasure. The construction was completed in 1230.
Attractions of Dublin Castle
There are several towers of great significance within the complex of the Dublin Castle.
- The south-east Record Tower is the only surviving medieval tower in the city. It was used
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as a high security prison and held native Irish hostages during the 11th century.
- The Octagonal Tower is located at the southern curtain wall. It was replaced by an ancient D shaped tower, featuring loops for archers to withstand external attacks.
- The Square Tower lies at the edge of the Bermingham Tower. It's height was reduced to convert it into a gunnery platform. The remains of the tower are still visible.
- The south-west Bermingham Tower was used as a prison as well as storage section of administration records. After its destruction in an explosion, it was rebuilt in 1777 at the first floor.
- Powder Tower can be seen at the Undercroft and features the Viking town defense bank of the 10th century.
- Saint Patrick's Hall is the largest room in the State Apartments, and exhibits the unique decorative interiors in Ireland. It is one of the oldest rooms in the Dublin castle of the 1740s.
- State Drawing Room was the main reception room of the Lord Lieutenant originally, but presently it is an exhibition site with replicated furnishings and fittings, since it was destroyed by fire in 1941.
- Throne Room was built as the Battleaxe Hall during the 1740s. It was transformed as a Presence Chamber around 1790. The room features royal decor, resembling those during the reign of King George IV.
- State Dining Room, State Corridor, State Bedrooms are presently outstanding galleries housing rare artifacts of the Tudor period.
Guided tours to Dublin Castle are conducted, specially of the sites including the State Apartments, Chapel Royal and Undercroft. The tour timings are from 10.00 am to 4.45 pm from Monday to Friday and from 2.00 pm to 4.45 pm on Sundays and other holidays. All the museums of this castle are open from 10am-5pm on week days and from 2pm-5pm on week ends. The castle complex boasts the Chester Beatty Library with a rare collection of books and journals. The Dublin Gardens of 1680 is the central attraction of the castle with unique species of plants and a beautiful pool. It is situated right in the center of the Dublin Castle complex.
Dublin Castle along with its attractions and museums can be enjoyed by the tourists with the whole family.
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