Situated at the mouth of the River Liffey is the city of Dublin, the capital of Ireland. The name Dublin has been derived from the Irish name Dubhlinn or Duibhlinn, meaning “black pool”. Formerly a Viking settlement, this city, located today in the province of Leinster on Ireland’s east coast was founded in 841. If we turn the pages of history, the earliest reference to a settlement in Dublin was in the writings of Ptolemyin about 140 AD. Following the Norman invasion, the Kingdom of Dublin became Ireland’s principal city. Dublin grew and expanded rapidly from the 17th century onwards.
Climate
As far as the climate of Dublin is concerned, the city witnesses what is called maritime climate due to the moderating effects of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream. Similar to much of northwest Europe, the climate of Dublin is characterised by mild winters and cool summers. Temperatures do not touch extremes in this region. Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year. The sunniest months are May and June whereas October happens to be the wettest month in Dublin. Strong Atlantic winds are most common in autumn. The city experiences long summer days and short winter days.
How To Reach
In order to reach Dublin, visitors should note that Dublin is served by a two terminal airports. Tourists also have the option of accessing Dublin by train. There are two main railway stations in Dublin at Heuston and Connolly. The good news is that Dublin is one of the most walkable cities in Europe. So you should simply put on your walking shoes and explore the city on your own terms. However, there is also the option of taking a hop on and off bus ticket to explore the city. The bus stops at the biggest tourist spots of the city.
Places To See
- Kilmainham Gaol: This museum holds specific historical significance because the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed here.Numerous Irish nationalist leaders were also imprisoned here over the years.
- Phoenix Park: Popular as the largest urban enclosed park in Europe, this park is a real treat. It also happens to be home to the residence for the President of Ireland.
- Leinster House: An architectural marvel, Leinster Houseis the home of the Irish parliament. Visitors should note that admission to this place is free, but tours have to be arranged in advance.
- St Patrick’s Cathedral: Ireland’s largest church, St Patrick’s Cathedral was founded in the 12th century. Jonathan Swift, the author of “Gulliver’s Travels”, who was the dean of the Cathedral for a certain period, is buried here.
- Dublin Castle: This is one castle which happens to be completely different from a traditional castle as there are no turrets, moats or drawbridges here. Dublin Castle is an assortment of 18th-century administrative buildings, built on a medieval plan of two courtyards.
- The Porterhouse: Dublin’s oldest microbrewery pub, sells its own label of beers. Do not forget to try the Oyster Stout, which is made with real oysters.
From visiting archaeological sites to partaking the breathtaking landscape, Dublin caters to the desires of every kind of tourist.
