Hosted and Sponsored by the School of Computer Science and Statistics at Trinity College, University of Dublin
Hosted and Sponsored by the School of Computer Science and Statistics at Trinity College, University of Dublin
Dublin (Baile Átha Cliath - translation 'Town of the Hurdle Ford') is the capital and largest city in the Republic of Ireland. It dates from Viking times (circa 988 A.D.) and has grown to become an important cosmopolitan city with over one million inhabitants.
The city is rich in architecture, culture and history. The notable architecture includes Stephens Green and Merrion Square, which are two fine Georgian squares in central Dublin. The Bank of Ireland in College Green (formerly the house of parliament until 1800) is quite impressive, as is Trinity College Dublin (dating from 1592 and housing the world famous `Book of Kells'). Christ Church Cathedral & St. Patricks Cathedral are well worth visiting.
Dublin is famous for its writers and poets. The poet and playwright, William Butler Yeats was born in Sandymount, Dublin. James Joyce who immortalised Dublin in his famous `Ulysses' was a Dubliner, as was Samuel Beckett author of `Waiting for Godot'. Other famous Dublin writers include Oscar Wilde, Sean O'Casey, George Bernard Shaw, etc. The city has several theatres including the Abbey Theatre (which was founded by William Butler Yeats) and the Gate Theatre. Perhaps, this rich literary tradition is evident in the warmth, friendliness and wit of the native inhabitants.
Dublin pubs are probably among the best you will find anywhere in the world. The new left bank in Dublin, i.e., the Temple Bar, has many pubs and restaurants that welcome visitors to the city. Perhaps, the most famous Dublin pub is O'Donoghues, Merrion Row. Several famous Irish traditional musicians started off in this pub, including `The Dubliners'.
Dublin is home to the National Art Gallery, Merrion Square and the Hugh Lane Art Gallery in Parnell Square. The National Museum, Kildare St. has many famous treasures from Irish history and is well worth a visit. Dublin is the centre of political and commercial life in Ireland. This includes the houses of parliament (or Dail) and is located in Kildare St. Finally, the city is home to "Guinness", and no visit to Dublin is complete without sampling the local brew or visiting the St. James Gate Brewery.