The capital and largest city of Ireland, Dublin is situated at the mouth of the River Liffey. In recent years it has experienced unprecedented growth and is now one of the most cosmopolitan and lively cities in Europe. This is a stark contrast to just a few decades ago, when Dublin was often described as the “last 18th century city in Western Europe.” Its association with writers is remarkable, producing more Nobel Prize winners for literature than any other city in the world. George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker are just a few of the most famous.  Another local, James Joyce, set many of his classics here.  Dublin’s local music scene has also produced numerous international successes, the most obvious being U2.

See

• Dublin Castle – The historic heart of the city, Dublin’s name in fact comes from the “black pool” that was once here.  Remnants of the old Viking fortification can be seen in the Undercroft.
• Book of Kells – This illuminated manuscript was produced by Celtic monks around 800 AD, and is now on permanent display at the Trinity College Library.    

Experience

• Temple Bar – Once the site of Viking Dublin, this area is now filled with bars and pubs that have become overwhelmingly popular with visitors.
• Guinness Brewery – One of the city’s most famous exports is reputedly enjoyed most at the source.  In fact the company’s brewery in London no longer produces the dark ale, citing market research showing drinkers’ claims that Guinness brewed in Ireland has a distinctly superior taste. 
• Jameson Distillery – Another of Ireland’s famous exports can be enjoyed with a fascinating tour covering the history and art of whiskey production.

Secrets of the City

• Trinity College Harp –Known as the “Brian Boru harp” this iconic emblem of Ireland appears on the country’s coat of arms, coins, passports, official seals, Guinness beer and even the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom.  Dating back to the 14th century, this harp is on permanent display at the Trinity College library.