The National Museum of Ireland, Dublin
If you are planning a visit to Ireland, you will want to visit the he National Museum of Ireland which consists of four branches – Archaeology, Natural History, Decorative Arts & History, and Country Life. The individual branches are situated in various locations, and the museums are all free. An immense amount of artifacts are on display within the multiple divisions. Depending on your tastes, you can view collections featuring Art & Industry, Irish Antiquities, Irish Folklife, as well as natural history and archaeology.
National Museum of Ireland
Archaeology
The National Museum of Ireland-Archaeology celebrates the rich Irish history. It spotlights its days of yore with artifacts from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. Here you can learn about the ancient times of the vikings, the middle ages as well as the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland in 1169. Preserved bodies of Ireland’s previous residents are included in collections along with Irish antiquities. Legendary objects such as the Ardagh Chalice, and Tara Brooch can be found here. The National Museum of Ireland-Archaeology, 35A Kildare St, Dublin 2, D02 YK38, Ireland; https://www.museum.ie/en-ie/museums/archaeology
Natural History
National Museum of Ireland-Natural History is home to over 10,000 specimens. It received a nickname – the Dead Zoo due to the large animal and mammal skeletons and taxidermy on exhibit. However, in addition to scientific specimens, it also features hundreds of artworks and scientific instruments.
The museum features over ninety watercolors by George Victor Du Noyer (1817-1869). See image above. Enjoy many other types of media such as photography, monochrome prints, print blocks, and more. Natural History, Merrion Street, Dublin 2, D02 F627; https://www.museum.ie/en-ie/museums/natural-history
Decorative Arts & History
National Museum of Ireland-Decorative Arts & History has an eclectic assortment of furniture, ceramics, coins, and also fashion. There is an excellent exhibition about the life and work of Irish designer and architect Eileen Gray. It features family photographs, books, as well as all sorts of tools she used. If history is your thing, you’ll also be educated on the fascinating history of Ireland’s military from 1550 to the 21st century at Collins Barracks.
The Decorative Arts & History’s number one mission is to preserve Ireland’s heritage in the decorative and applied arts, including, economic, military social history, and political. While you are there, stop into the charming cafe for a coffee and pastry. National Museum of Ireland-Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks, Benburb St, Stoneybatter, Dublin, D07 XKV4, Ireland; https://www.museum.ie/en-ie/museums/natural-history
Country Life
Museum of Ireland-Country Life is located in Castlebar. This museum focuses on traditional Irish life and culture throughout the years. It displays Irish houses, furniture, as well as farming tools and equipment. Museum of Ireland-Country Life, Turlough Park House, Gortnafolla, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, F23 HY31, Ireland; https://www.museum.ie/en-ie/museums/country-life
Whichever museum you decide to visit to embrace the Irish culture, remember they are all free. Have fun! Visit the website for more info about all of the above museums – https://www.museum.ie
CLICK HERE to read more articles about Ireland. We also encourage our readers to visit Dublin’s official tourism website at https://www.visitdublin.com/ or for additional info about Ireland, visit https://www.ireland.com/
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