Ireland - Culture

Celtic tribes arrived on the island of Ireland between 600-150 B.C. followed by invasions of Norsemen that began in the late 8th century. English invasions began in the 12th century marking the start of more than seven centuries of Anglo-Irish struggles. Even today, Ireland is struggling to attain its independence. Western Europe currently occupies over a quarter of the island which is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, north of Great Britain.

The arts play an important role in modern Ireland's culture. In Dublin, The National Gallery of Ireland houses the national collection of Irish art and European master paintings. Research collections housed in the Gallery include material relating to the national and international development of the visual arts from the middle ages to today. Facilities are open weekdays, by appointment to all researchers.

Admission to the permanent collection is free to the general public. The main Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Guided tours, including those for the visually and hearing impaired, may be booked in advance. Contact the Education Department on your arrival to the area.

Visitors to Dublin will also want to check out the War Memorial Gardens. These gardens are of great architectural interest and beauty year round. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the War Memorial Gardens are dedicated to the memory of 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the 1914 - 1918 Irish War.

In Tipperary, there is a spectacular group of medieval buildings set in an outcrop of limestone. One of these intriguing buildings is a round tower. Also located here is a Romanesque chapel, a cathedral and the restored hall of the Vicar's Choral. Attractions here include an audiovisual show titled 'Strongholds of the Faith'. The show is about the English, French and German influence during the medieval era. The destination also features a small museum and several exhibits of the regions early history.

In Navan, visitors will want to see the Hill of Tara, best known as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. The Hill of Tara has been an important historical site since the late Stone Age, when a secret passage tomb was constructed there in the early centuries after Christ. An audiovisual show called 'Tara, Meeting Place of Heroes' is offered to visitors, along with guided tours of the tomb.

Back in Dublin, Dublin Castle is a great destination to visit. Originally built in the 13th century on a site previously settled by the Vikings, the castle has served many important functions since its creation. At one time or another, the castle has served as a military fortress, a prison, treasury, courts of law and the seat of English Administration. It was the English Administration seat for 700 years. Over time, the castle has also undergone numerous upgrades. It was rebuilt in the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Today Dublin Castle is used for important State receptions and Presidential Inaugurations. Visitors can access most parts of the castle on their own. Guided tours are also available.

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