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The National Library of Ireland (NLI; Irish: Leabharlann Náisiúnta na hÉireann) is the Republic of Ireland's national library located in Dublin, in a building designed by Thomas Newenham Deane. The mission of the National Library of Ireland is "To collect, preserve, promote and make accessible the documentary and intellectual record of the life of Ireland and to contribute to the provision of access to the larger universe of recorded knowledge."
The library is a reference library and, as such, does not lend. It has a large quantity of Irish and Irish-related material which can be consulted without charge; this includes books, maps, manuscripts, music, newspapers, periodicals and photographs. Included in its collections are materials issued by private as well as government publishers. Among the library's major holdings are an archive of Irish newspapers and collections donated by individual authors or their estates. The library is also the ISSN National Centre for Ireland.
Free entrance! The museum has some different era's from Irish history you can explore. I was very interested in the viking history which is well documented in the museum. Although some things are quite outdated, it still was a well-spend 2 hours
Reinier VosMar 3, 2018
The bog bodies are amazing and very tastefully partitioned so if you don't want to see them there is no chance of accidentally running into one. ( This helped with my little sister who is petrified of bodies). The gold display was good but they hardly have any information on the signs. Will hire a audio guide next time.
Erika SchadeJan 12, 2018
Such an amazing place, one the country can be proud of. Fascinating exhibits, well cared for and displayed, and right in the heart of the city. Staff who are always willing to help, and some interactive items too. Although mostly Irish in origin, there are plenty of other objects of different heritage - so much to see and do. Also - it's free! I have to recommend donating though.
Peter GaughranDec 7, 2017
A decent museum - the bog bodies are particularly worth a visit. Overall the exhibits are interesting and provide a good range of historical periods of Ireland's history. I would just say some of the displays felt a bit tired and the same can be said for parts inside the building itself.
Stefan NubertFeb 27, 2018
Lovely detailed collection learnt a lot. At speed takes about 1.5 hours to get around & the children enjoyed it. However the building is in much need of an upgrade to make it more accessible and the upper levels are closed as they have no fire escapes.
Emmet CahillFeb 12, 2018
Probably my favourite museum in Ireland. There is an absolutely wild amount of gold in this museum found from a variety of different hordes across Ireland over the years. They also have a wide array of artifacts from different parts of the county and different eras ranging from further back to the Stone Age. There is a lovely little cafe inside as well, it is a little expensive but admission to the museum is free so I suppose it isn’t too much to ask. The staff are super friendly and always willing to help and they also have visiting exhibits which change over sometimes. Admission is, as I said, free, like many public museums in Ireland, so leave a donation if you can!
Brendan PidgeonMar 29, 2018
One has to loooove exhibitions with a taxidermists passion or else you¨ll be freaking out. Thank g_d that I am my father´s daughter and find dead, stuffed animals extremely interesting. In combination with the right company (best friend on earth) a perfect plan for a Sunday afternoon. A big ´THANK YOU´ to the very sweet staff: they let us take picture with the rhino!!!!!
Susanne SchwedhelmMar 31, 2018
Great place for everyone. Beautiful building. Many different period and items, from human remains dug up from peat to gold jewelry, tombs, Viking ship reproduction, Egyptian mummies, swords... I had a great time there. And it's free, thank you very much!
ingridedwinaMar 20, 2018
Museum building on its own is well worth the visit. Visitor info and security staff were great. Even phoned other sites for us to check which ones were open and on what times on Easter weekend. Help like that is almost impossible to find so freely offerred and with smiles added in. Thanks greatly. Keep up the good cheer so others can have as an enjoyable visit as we did. Cliff & Judy Stead
Cliff SteadApr 1, 2018
There is something for everybody here. Collection is impressive and varies. Creativity area for kids is great, helps little ones express themselves and gives parents a breather. Food in the restaurant is tasty and at reasonable price. Restrooms are plenty and clean.
Katarzyna JaroszewiczMar 8, 2018
Great location, nice gift shop here and it's a great day out for young and old. A completely unique experience. Great place for tourists to visit. I regularly recommend it and it always goes down well.
Niall StoneApr 23, 2018
enchanting historical building. Friendly helpful staff. Great exhibits with nice write - ups. Make sure you go around in the right direction, to ensure you see the exhibits in chronological order!
Sarah BurkeMay 1, 2018
This museum is a truly incredible place. I was lucky to study a semester in Cork, and I had an archaeology professor who taught a great class for foreign students that was a primer on Irish Archaeology. I went to this museum in Dublin as a result and saw the wonderful treasures. Twelve years later, I returned with my wife and basically dragged her to the museum because it has wonderful artifacts and gives you a real sense of the varied history of Ireland. From stone age tools to Viking weapons to early church relics, you can see it all. No fees, which is also great, but consider donating at the entrance - those items don't maintain themselves!
Mark RyanJun 10, 2018
Fascinating and well explained presentations of archeological artifacts about Ireland. I had no idea that the island had been occupied that far back in time. You'll see treasures, weapons, clay vessels, and religious artifacts abound. It's a must see if you're in Dublin. The price is great - free! And the staff are informative and will gladly share their knowledge
Kurt KrieseJun 12, 2018
This place is a bit of an unexpected treasure! We went here as it was raining and ended up spending our whole day here just fascinated by the collection. The downstairs is dedicated to wildlife native to Ireland while the upstairs covers exotic animals. This building is like a tardis, seriously you can not imagine how much they have inside from the outside! I have to say, there are some very old examples of taxidermy in the museum and some of the facial expressions are questionable, but honestly that was our favourite part of the whole experience! The staff were also very friendly and graciously forgave us for snickering at a few faces. It was also used as a filming location for Penny Dreadful for those who may be interested! The only downsides I would list are that the upper level of the top floor is closed to the public for health and safety reasons, which I understand but is a shame as we could see there was a lot more to experience up there. Also there is no cafe on site at this museum, but they do have signs recommending the cafe at one of their sister museums nearby. Definitely worth visiting on a rainy day.
Natalie PMay 22, 2018
I love this museum! You get a great look into the Viking era of Dublin through numerous artifacts that have been uncovered over the years, which I enjoy learning about. But the stars of the museum, in my opinion, are the bodies that were preserved in bogs throughout the country! It's a surreal experience, and truly the closest I've felt to those who lived long before us. Highly recommend a visit! The admission is free, but I suggest leaving a donation that reflects your experience.
Kailey Noble-MurrayJul 10, 2018
Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity. So well done, informative, a treat to the eyes delight. Every animal is uniquely presented and perfectly restored by expert taxidermist. Children and adults we're all fascinated. Collections of some species are outstanding.
Janet LynnJul 15, 2018
Location is amazing. This was my first chance to see some bog people. It was a singular experience. The way they are displayed was very respectful, and made the impact quite stunning. The gift shop at this museum is wonderful.
Evan CooperJul 9, 2018
Nice overview of Irish and Viking history. Best of all it’s free! Staff is friendly and welcoming. Also cloak room where you can leave your bags for free!
Dakota Hunter LifeofaDigitalNomad_comJul 11, 2018
Free entrance! The museum has some different era's from Irish history you can explore. I was very interested in the viking history which is well documented in the museum. Although some things are quite outdated, it still was a well-spend 2 hours
Reinier VosMar 3, 2018
The bog bodies are amazing and very tastefully partitioned so if you don't want to see them there is no chance of accidentally running into one. ( This helped with my little sister who is petrified of bodies). The gold display was good but they hardly have any information on the signs. Will hire a audio guide next time.
Erika SchadeJan 12, 2018
Such an amazing place, one the country can be proud of. Fascinating exhibits, well cared for and displayed, and right in the heart of the city. Staff who are always willing to help, and some interactive items too. Although mostly Irish in origin, there are plenty of other objects of different heritage - so much to see and do. Also - it's free! I have to recommend donating though.
Peter GaughranDec 7, 2017
A decent museum - the bog bodies are particularly worth a visit. Overall the exhibits are interesting and provide a good range of historical periods of Ireland's history. I would just say some of the displays felt a bit tired and the same can be said for parts inside the building itself.
Stefan NubertFeb 27, 2018
Lovely detailed collection learnt a lot. At speed takes about 1.5 hours to get around & the children enjoyed it. However the building is in much need of an upgrade to make it more accessible and the upper levels are closed as they have no fire escapes.
Emmet CahillFeb 12, 2018
Probably my favourite museum in Ireland. There is an absolutely wild amount of gold in this museum found from a variety of different hordes across Ireland over the years. They also have a wide array of artifacts from different parts of the county and different eras ranging from further back to the Stone Age. There is a lovely little cafe inside as well, it is a little expensive but admission to the museum is free so I suppose it isn’t too much to ask. The staff are super friendly and always willing to help and they also have visiting exhibits which change over sometimes. Admission is, as I said, free, like many public museums in Ireland, so leave a donation if you can!
Brendan PidgeonMar 29, 2018
One has to loooove exhibitions with a taxidermists passion or else you¨ll be freaking out. Thank g_d that I am my father´s daughter and find dead, stuffed animals extremely interesting. In combination with the right company (best friend on earth) a perfect plan for a Sunday afternoon. A big ´THANK YOU´ to the very sweet staff: they let us take picture with the rhino!!!!!
Susanne SchwedhelmMar 31, 2018
Great place for everyone. Beautiful building. Many different period and items, from human remains dug up from peat to gold jewelry, tombs, Viking ship reproduction, Egyptian mummies, swords... I had a great time there. And it's free, thank you very much!
ingridedwinaMar 20, 2018
Museum building on its own is well worth the visit. Visitor info and security staff were great. Even phoned other sites for us to check which ones were open and on what times on Easter weekend. Help like that is almost impossible to find so freely offerred and with smiles added in. Thanks greatly. Keep up the good cheer so others can have as an enjoyable visit as we did. Cliff & Judy Stead
Cliff SteadApr 1, 2018
There is something for everybody here. Collection is impressive and varies. Creativity area for kids is great, helps little ones express themselves and gives parents a breather. Food in the restaurant is tasty and at reasonable price. Restrooms are plenty and clean.
Katarzyna JaroszewiczMar 8, 2018
Great location, nice gift shop here and it's a great day out for young and old. A completely unique experience. Great place for tourists to visit. I regularly recommend it and it always goes down well.
Niall StoneApr 23, 2018
enchanting historical building. Friendly helpful staff. Great exhibits with nice write - ups. Make sure you go around in the right direction, to ensure you see the exhibits in chronological order!
Sarah BurkeMay 1, 2018
This museum is a truly incredible place. I was lucky to study a semester in Cork, and I had an archaeology professor who taught a great class for foreign students that was a primer on Irish Archaeology. I went to this museum in Dublin as a result and saw the wonderful treasures. Twelve years later, I returned with my wife and basically dragged her to the museum because it has wonderful artifacts and gives you a real sense of the varied history of Ireland. From stone age tools to Viking weapons to early church relics, you can see it all. No fees, which is also great, but consider donating at the entrance - those items don't maintain themselves!
Mark RyanJun 10, 2018
Fascinating and well explained presentations of archeological artifacts about Ireland. I had no idea that the island had been occupied that far back in time. You'll see treasures, weapons, clay vessels, and religious artifacts abound. It's a must see if you're in Dublin. The price is great - free! And the staff are informative and will gladly share their knowledge
Kurt KrieseJun 12, 2018
This place is a bit of an unexpected treasure! We went here as it was raining and ended up spending our whole day here just fascinated by the collection. The downstairs is dedicated to wildlife native to Ireland while the upstairs covers exotic animals. This building is like a tardis, seriously you can not imagine how much they have inside from the outside! I have to say, there are some very old examples of taxidermy in the museum and some of the facial expressions are questionable, but honestly that was our favourite part of the whole experience! The staff were also very friendly and graciously forgave us for snickering at a few faces. It was also used as a filming location for Penny Dreadful for those who may be interested! The only downsides I would list are that the upper level of the top floor is closed to the public for health and safety reasons, which I understand but is a shame as we could see there was a lot more to experience up there. Also there is no cafe on site at this museum, but they do have signs recommending the cafe at one of their sister museums nearby. Definitely worth visiting on a rainy day.
Natalie PMay 22, 2018
I love this museum! You get a great look into the Viking era of Dublin through numerous artifacts that have been uncovered over the years, which I enjoy learning about. But the stars of the museum, in my opinion, are the bodies that were preserved in bogs throughout the country! It's a surreal experience, and truly the closest I've felt to those who lived long before us. Highly recommend a visit! The admission is free, but I suggest leaving a donation that reflects your experience.
Kailey Noble-MurrayJul 10, 2018
Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity. So well done, informative, a treat to the eyes delight. Every animal is uniquely presented and perfectly restored by expert taxidermist. Children and adults we're all fascinated. Collections of some species are outstanding.
Janet LynnJul 15, 2018
Location is amazing. This was my first chance to see some bog people. It was a singular experience. The way they are displayed was very respectful, and made the impact quite stunning. The gift shop at this museum is wonderful.
Evan CooperJul 9, 2018
Nice overview of Irish and Viking history. Best of all it’s free! Staff is friendly and welcoming. Also cloak room where you can leave your bags for free!
Dakota Hunter LifeofaDigitalNomad_comJul 11, 2018
Free entrance! The museum has some different era's from Irish history you can explore. I was very interested in the viking history which is well documented in the museum. Although some things are quite outdated, it still was a well-spend 2 hours
Reinier VosMar 3, 2018
The bog bodies are amazing and very tastefully partitioned so if you don't want to see them there is no chance of accidentally running into one. ( This helped with my little sister who is petrified of bodies). The gold display was good but they hardly have any information on the signs. Will hire a audio guide next time.
Erika SchadeJan 12, 2018
Such an amazing place, one the country can be proud of. Fascinating exhibits, well cared for and displayed, and right in the heart of the city. Staff who are always willing to help, and some interactive items too. Although mostly Irish in origin, there are plenty of other objects of different heritage - so much to see and do. Also - it's free! I have to recommend donating though.
Peter GaughranDec 7, 2017
A decent museum - the bog bodies are particularly worth a visit. Overall the exhibits are interesting and provide a good range of historical periods of Ireland's history. I would just say some of the displays felt a bit tired and the same can be said for parts inside the building itself.
Stefan NubertFeb 27, 2018
Lovely detailed collection learnt a lot. At speed takes about 1.5 hours to get around & the children enjoyed it. However the building is in much need of an upgrade to make it more accessible and the upper levels are closed as they have no fire escapes.
Emmet CahillFeb 12, 2018
Probably my favourite museum in Ireland. There is an absolutely wild amount of gold in this museum found from a variety of different hordes across Ireland over the years. They also have a wide array of artifacts from different parts of the county and different eras ranging from further back to the Stone Age. There is a lovely little cafe inside as well, it is a little expensive but admission to the museum is free so I suppose it isn’t too much to ask. The staff are super friendly and always willing to help and they also have visiting exhibits which change over sometimes. Admission is, as I said, free, like many public museums in Ireland, so leave a donation if you can!
Brendan PidgeonMar 29, 2018
One has to loooove exhibitions with a taxidermists passion or else you¨ll be freaking out. Thank g_d that I am my father´s daughter and find dead, stuffed animals extremely interesting. In combination with the right company (best friend on earth) a perfect plan for a Sunday afternoon. A big ´THANK YOU´ to the very sweet staff: they let us take picture with the rhino!!!!!
Susanne SchwedhelmMar 31, 2018
Great place for everyone. Beautiful building. Many different period and items, from human remains dug up from peat to gold jewelry, tombs, Viking ship reproduction, Egyptian mummies, swords... I had a great time there. And it's free, thank you very much!
ingridedwinaMar 20, 2018
Museum building on its own is well worth the visit. Visitor info and security staff were great. Even phoned other sites for us to check which ones were open and on what times on Easter weekend. Help like that is almost impossible to find so freely offerred and with smiles added in. Thanks greatly. Keep up the good cheer so others can have as an enjoyable visit as we did. Cliff & Judy Stead
Cliff SteadApr 1, 2018
There is something for everybody here. Collection is impressive and varies. Creativity area for kids is great, helps little ones express themselves and gives parents a breather. Food in the restaurant is tasty and at reasonable price. Restrooms are plenty and clean.
Katarzyna JaroszewiczMar 8, 2018
Great location, nice gift shop here and it's a great day out for young and old. A completely unique experience. Great place for tourists to visit. I regularly recommend it and it always goes down well.
Niall StoneApr 23, 2018
enchanting historical building. Friendly helpful staff. Great exhibits with nice write - ups. Make sure you go around in the right direction, to ensure you see the exhibits in chronological order!
Sarah BurkeMay 1, 2018
This museum is a truly incredible place. I was lucky to study a semester in Cork, and I had an archaeology professor who taught a great class for foreign students that was a primer on Irish Archaeology. I went to this museum in Dublin as a result and saw the wonderful treasures. Twelve years later, I returned with my wife and basically dragged her to the museum because it has wonderful artifacts and gives you a real sense of the varied history of Ireland. From stone age tools to Viking weapons to early church relics, you can see it all. No fees, which is also great, but consider donating at the entrance - those items don't maintain themselves!
Mark RyanJun 10, 2018
Fascinating and well explained presentations of archeological artifacts about Ireland. I had no idea that the island had been occupied that far back in time. You'll see treasures, weapons, clay vessels, and religious artifacts abound. It's a must see if you're in Dublin. The price is great - free! And the staff are informative and will gladly share their knowledge
Kurt KrieseJun 12, 2018
This place is a bit of an unexpected treasure! We went here as it was raining and ended up spending our whole day here just fascinated by the collection. The downstairs is dedicated to wildlife native to Ireland while the upstairs covers exotic animals. This building is like a tardis, seriously you can not imagine how much they have inside from the outside! I have to say, there are some very old examples of taxidermy in the museum and some of the facial expressions are questionable, but honestly that was our favourite part of the whole experience! The staff were also very friendly and graciously forgave us for snickering at a few faces. It was also used as a filming location for Penny Dreadful for those who may be interested! The only downsides I would list are that the upper level of the top floor is closed to the public for health and safety reasons, which I understand but is a shame as we could see there was a lot more to experience up there. Also there is no cafe on site at this museum, but they do have signs recommending the cafe at one of their sister museums nearby. Definitely worth visiting on a rainy day.
Natalie PMay 22, 2018
I love this museum! You get a great look into the Viking era of Dublin through numerous artifacts that have been uncovered over the years, which I enjoy learning about. But the stars of the museum, in my opinion, are the bodies that were preserved in bogs throughout the country! It's a surreal experience, and truly the closest I've felt to those who lived long before us. Highly recommend a visit! The admission is free, but I suggest leaving a donation that reflects your experience.
Kailey Noble-MurrayJul 10, 2018
Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity. So well done, informative, a treat to the eyes delight. Every animal is uniquely presented and perfectly restored by expert taxidermist. Children and adults we're all fascinated. Collections of some species are outstanding.
Janet LynnJul 15, 2018
Location is amazing. This was my first chance to see some bog people. It was a singular experience. The way they are displayed was very respectful, and made the impact quite stunning. The gift shop at this museum is wonderful.
Evan CooperJul 9, 2018
Nice overview of Irish and Viking history. Best of all it’s free! Staff is friendly and welcoming. Also cloak room where you can leave your bags for free!
Dakota Hunter LifeofaDigitalNomad_comJul 11, 2018
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 2:00 – 5:00 PM |
Wander is a travel search engine that allows you to find the perfect travel destination that fits your budget and preferences.