Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is situated in the very heart of historic Dublin. In fact the city gets its name from the Dubh Linn or Black Pool (dubh = black), on the site of the present Castle Gardens and Coach House. In August 1204, King John of England commanded the erection of a strong castle, with strong walls and good ditches, for the defence of the city, administration of justice and safe custody of treasure. It was completed by 1230 and the Great Courtyard (Upper Castle Yard) of today corresponds closely with the fortification. The State Apartments are available to visit. Very plush surroundings, these were the seat of the executive and focus of a fashionable and extravagant social life. Today the Apartments are the venue for Ireland's Presidencies of the European Union, Presidential inaugurations and prestigious functions. Visitors may also view the Chapel Royal with its gothic revival structure and the Undercroft with its Viking defense bank. For more information view http://www.dublincastle.ie/