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ARCHITECTURE

Enjoy centuries of innovative architecture

From the stately Dublin Castle to the curious Spire, Dublin is a dotted with stunning architectural masterpieces. Dublin’s built environment stands as a testament to Ireland’s history and the city’s evolution.

The 18th century was a time of brilliant architectural fervour in Dublin and much of our architecture dates from this period. Neo-classical buildings, like Casino at Marino, completed in 1775, and the imposing Custom House, completed in 1791, are representative of a style that played a great role in our city’s architectural history. Fine examples of Georgian architecture also dot the cityscape, including Trinity College, the Irish Parliament House, and Four Courts.

Contemporary design has been incorporated into new buildings and structures throughout Dublin.

The Spire, also known as the Monument of Light, is a towering stainless steel structure standing 121.2 metres in height at the former site of Nelson’s Pillar. Then there is the Aviva Stadium, the five-tiered iconic wonder that is home to Ireland’s national football and rugby union teams. The recently completed Bord Gáis Energy Theatre is Ireland’s largest theatre. Likewise, the Convention Centre Dublin is the first carbon-neutral convention centre in the world, and was short-listed for the Engineers Ireland Excellence Awards’ Engineering Project of the Year when it opened in 2010.

We will continue to see new and innovative buildings emerge throughout our urban landscape. Our confidence in our architectural prowess is such that Dublin has put forward an application to be designated as the World Design Capital for 2014 by the World Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID).