Discover Ireland's History by Visiting Dublin's Top Heritage Sites

Dublin is a popular tourist destination for people around the world. The number of cheap flight deals into Dublin Airport has opened Dublin up to people of all budgets. Dublin has a lot more to offer its visitors besides great pubs. Dublin also has a long and interesting history. There are numerous places of interest to visit while in Dublin but here we will discuss the top Dublin heritage sites. Some of them are not on the main tourist path which can be even better for you depending on how you look at things. All of the top Dublin heritage sites mentioned in this article are in the Dublin city and county area.

Casino, Marino, Dublin
Casino is located on the northern side of the city in an area called Marino. It is situated three miles from Dublin city centre just off the Malahide road. Casino is one of the best examples of eighteenth century neo-classical style in the whole of Europe. It was originally built for the first Earl of Chralemont, James Caulfield as a house for relaxation and play. The Casino was designed by Sir William Chambers.

Kilmainham Gaol
This is one of most famous of the top Dublin heritage sites and has played a significant role in the history of Ireland. In fact it had main part in the struggles of Ireland as it fought for its own self rule between the late 1700's and early 1900's. Kilmainham Gaol was one of Europe's largest unoccupied gaols. Visitors to Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin will be able to view an exhibition the covers the significant history both political and penal of the gaol. It is also possible to take a tour of Kilmainham Gaol. Prices for entry range are in euros as follows 5.30 for adults, 3.70 for children and students and 11.50 for families.

Lusk Heritage Centre
This is a lesser known top Dublin heritage site. The Lusk heritage Centre is a combination of building styles the span nearly one thousand years. It consists of a church from the nineteenth century, a medieval belfry and a round tower. At the Lusk Heritage Centre you will find an exhibition detailing North Country Dublin's medieval churches and a sixteenth century effigy tomb.

Pearse Museum
The Pearse Museum is another well known top Dublin heritage site. It is situated in the beautiful surrounds of St. Enda's Park which itself offers charming walks and peaceful settings. The Pearse Museum is located in a building that was once a school run by Patrick Pearse. Inside exhibits centre around nature with displays of local flora and fauna. Admission to the Pearse Museum is free.

Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre is located in Dublin's enormous and famous Phoenix Park. This top Dublin heritage site exposes you to the history of the Phoenix Park dating as far back as 3500 B.C. Exhibits include audio-visuals, the fully restored Ashtown Castle, and a seventeenth century tower house. Visitors will also find a restaurant at the centre. For more information about visiting the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre you can call +353 1 677 0095. The centre opening times vary depending on the time of year so it is a good idea to call about the times available during your trip.

Rathfarnham Castle
This is another top Dublin heritage site that is a little off the main tourist path. It is located in an area just south of Dublin's city centre called Rathfarnham. It is thought that Rathfarnaham Castle dates back to the late 1500's and was built by a man from Yorkshire in the UK called Adam Loftus. This top Dublin heritage site has an interesting history. Inside you will see eighteenth century designs by a Sir William Chambers, the same man that designed the Casino. By the 1980s Rathfarnham Castle, Dublin was declared and National Monument. To get more information you can call +353 1 493 9462. Onsite you will be able to get snacks, tea and coffee.

St. Audeon's Church
This top Dublin heritage site doesn't normally get placed at the top of most tourists itineraries but it is still worth checking out. The church is located at the centre of a medieval walled city. It is the only medieval parish church that is still in operation by the Church of Ireland in Dublin.

These are just a few of the great Dublin heritage sites that await visitors to Dublin. So if you can manage to pull yourself away from the craic in the pubs take some time to visit them. The top Dublin heritage sites will give you a good insite into Dublin and Ireland's long history.