If you've ever watched Showtime's The
Tudors, you'll definitely recognize Dublin Castle. This massive structure
-- which acted as a stronghold of British power for about 700 years -- looms
over central Dublin. However, travel writers agree the castle better represents
royal lavishness than impenetrable intimidation, a characteristic easily
noticed as you stroll through the lavish State Apartments (formerly home to
British viceroys) and the Gothic-style Chapel Royal. One of the only parts of
the castle to scream "fortress" is the 13th-century Record Tower, the
only section that remains of the original Norman structure. Today, Dublin
Castle acts mainly as a tourist attraction, although you should note it's sometimes
closed for state receptions and presidential inaugurations.
You can wander the grounds for free, or you can hop on a
guided tour of the castle's interior. One recent visitor tells TripAdvisor: "We paid for the guided tour and it
was well worth it. Our tour guide packed it full of historical facts,
explanations of everything we walked through, and current events. It was very
informative and the castle was beautiful."
Dublin Castle is located just a few blocks west of Trinity
College
and is open to the public every Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:45
p.m. You won't have to pay to explore the grounds, but if you want to go
inside, admission is about $6 USD (€4) for adults and $3 USD (€2) for children.
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