If you are interested in history, then Ireland is the place to be. The number of Irish museums and historical places of interest is astounding, offering a fascinating insight into the history of the country. No matter what county you visit, there are many places, buildings and historical sites to visit. The best Irish museums and historical places are the ones you have time to get to - they all, big or small, are well worth the trip.
With 4 exhibits housed in 4 separate locations, the National Museum of Ireland provides visitors with an array of over 4 million artefacts to view. Opened in 1877, the different locations now house exhibits covering the decorative arts, in Collins Barracks, as well as two other exhibits in Dublin city itself. The fourth exhibit traces Ireland's country life, and is located in County Mayo.
No matter which city you visit in Ireland, there will be a museum exhibiting artefacts found in the county providing a peak into the history of the area. Ulster, Cork and Galway have super museums, and the Donegal Railway Heritage Centre in Ulster is worth a visit too. In Dublin you will find a Toy Museum and Transport Museum, as well as Dublinia, a Viking and medieval history exhibit that is quite different to the usual museum visit.
Your itinerary must include visits to at least a few of the 83 or so castles to be found throughout Ireland. Possibly the best known castle is Limerick Castle, home of the Blarney Stone. Dublin Castle, built in 1230, was home to King John of England and is now the Irish Government complex. Grange Castle in County Kildare features a 15th century tower house - in fact most of the castles in Ireland date from the 13th to 16th centuries, each with their own characteristic features.
Of particular interest to historians are the many cathedrals and other religious sites dating back centuries that are found throughout Ireland. Glendalough is the site of a sixth century monastery. Ennis Friary, St Colman's Cathedral and many other large and small religious buildings are not only magnificent in appearance, but are fascinating in terms of their history as well. St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin is possibly the best known cathedral in Ireland, dating back to 1220. If architectural history interests you, don't miss Belfast City Hall, built in 1898 with its magnificent green domes.
There are some ancient sites to visit in Ireland too, most notably the megalithic passage tombs at Fourknocks and Newgrange, the former dating back about 5000 years. The tourist wanting to visit all the Irish museums and historical places may find they need a six month trip! If you are interested in history, Ireland has more attractions than most.
