Easy Access Book of Kells & Dublin Castle Tour

Imagine being able to view the ancient Book of Kells without fighting the crowds. The Book of Kells was described in the 11th century archival records as 'the most precious object in the western world', and its cultural and historical value has only increased since then.  This Celtic manuscript has stood for 1,200 years as the greatest example of medieval illumination!  Your expert local English speaking guide will help you understand the books origin when in the Exhibition “Turning Darkness into Light” where you will learn and explore its rich ornamentation, intricate symbolism and how the book was beautifully and meticulously illustrated using a special painting technique. Your guide will also explain its meaning and merit as an artistic masterpiece.  From here you will visit The Old Library at Trinity College with its world-renowned, vaulted Long Room holding 200,000 of its oldest books, many of these historic treasures. In addition, see the 15th century “Brian Boru Harp”, named after Ireland’s famous 11th King and Warrior who serenaded his troops into battle with his musical talents as well as see an original copy of the Declaration of Irish Independence read out at the beginning of the 1916 Uprising.

The next stop on your tour is Dublin’s historic heart - Dublin Castle. (The name Dublin is derived from what was once the Black Pool of the Castle (Dubh Linn). Originally built in the 13th century - on a site previously settled by the Vikings - it has been a military fortress, prison, treasury, court of law and was the seat of English power in Ireland for 700 years! Rebuilt in the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, Dublin Castle enthralls all who enter her gates. On this fully guided exterior tour, you will stroll through the gardens viewing the original Record & Octagonal Towers as well as the Upper & Lower State Yards with their many architectural highlights. Along the way, your engaging guide will share vivid tales of intrigue and mystery that make the Castle’s history come alive.

Continuing on, you will visit Dublin’s 18th century, red-bricked George’s Street Arcade.  This popular shopping district historically Victorian, but today the almost 50 stores and restaurants offer a vibrant and exciting, trendy mix. With something for everyone, this might be your place to find that special souvenir after your tour. And what would a visit to Dublin be without paying your respects to the beloved statue of Molly Malone, the mascot of this beautiful Georgian city. And if you're brave, sing a few bars of the favorite song!