August 30, 2025, 1:15 pm | Read time: 3 minutes

In the early 13th century, the English built a fortress here to subdue the rebellious Irish, who, quite audaciously, did not want to be occupied by the English without resistance. Before that, there was a Norman castle, which was built on even older Viking foundations. Remnants of these can still be found in the castle’s basement vaults today.

The Record Tower from the English castle still stands (see large photo above). All other buildings were added over time. Thus, the tower is the last remaining relic from the Middle Ages in the entire city, just as the entertainment district Temple Bar has the last remaining contiguous building substance from the 18th century.

Representation and Four Museums

The English used Dublin Castle as a representative office of the Crown. Since then, Dublin Castle has presented itself as a castle, no longer a fortress. It is still used this way: as a guesthouse for state guests and as a ceremonial venue for events like the inauguration of the Irish prime minister. There are now four museums or exhibitions on the grounds, and a tour of the representative areas is also possible.

Visit to the State Apartments

The worthwhile tour shows the “State Apartments,” unless state guests are staying there, as well as the interesting lower floors, where the entire history can be read in the masonry, including the remaining foundations built by the Vikings.

Tours are conducted in English, but there are German-language brochures. German-speaking guides are also available upon request. You are not allowed to explore the state rooms and vaults on your own.

Garda Museum – History of the Irish Police

The Garda Museum (Police Museum) in the Record Tower is manageable and also free. It showcases the not-so-uninteresting history of the Irish police, depicted through pictures, photos, uniforms, and equipment.

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Revenue Museum in the Basement of the Chapel Royal

The Chapel Royal was built in the 18th century in the Gothic style, which it shares with the much larger St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The ornaments are noteworthy. Once of greater significance, the chapel is now a cultural center. Admission is free.

Be sure to visit the crypt: The Revenue Museum in the chapel of Dublin Castle showcases the interesting, but above all, humorous history of taxation in Ireland. In small interactive games, you can play the smuggler yourself.

Chester Beatty Library in Dublin Castle

The Chester Beatty Library is not as large as the Old Library at Trinity College, but it displays art treasures from around the world: In addition to manuscripts and books, there are miniature paintings and artwork.

Text contribution: Ulrich Lenhard