This Georgian building is a historically rich part of Dublin's urban landscape. Designed by James Gandon and finished in 1791, it fulfilled its designated purpose for only nine years: the 1800 Act of Union gave London control over Ireland's custom and excise, leaving the Custom House a mere symbol of former power. Election victory in 1921 for Sinn Fein saw the burning of the building, which militants considered a sign of British rule. Restoration work was finally finished as late as 1991. Pavilions, arcades and columns make up the façade, which is crowned by a vast copper dome and statue personifying Commerce. The visitor centre outlines the fascinating history of the building.
Completed in 1779, the City Hall designed by Thomas Cooley housed the Royal Exchange. It is an elegant reminder of the wealth and opulence of Dublin in the city's 18th-century heyday. Today, City Hall is managed by the Dublin Corporation, which has restored the building beautifully. The great central atrium, complete with gold-leafed dome and mosaic floor, is one of the most impressive public spaces around. The history of Dublin is told in a vivid, computer-aided series of exhibitions.
Known as the Rutland Square in the 18th-century, it was re-christened as Parnell Square after Charles Stewart Parnell, one of Ireland's prominent sons who was part of the Irish independence revolution. It is a traditional Georgian square and many a Dubliner has been born on the Rotunda Hospital (one of the main maternity hospitals of the city) which is nestled in the heart of the square. One can still get a glimpse of traditional Georgian houses on the square's east side. Some of the interesting sites near Parnell Square are the Hugh Lane Gallery, Abbey Presbyterian Church (Findlater's Church), Dublin Writers Museum and the James Joyce Centre. There is also the Garden of Remembrance, a lovely garden in memory of those who laid down their lives for freedom.
Nestled in one of Europe's most splendid parks, the rustic, yet well-preserved Ashtown Castle dates as far back as the 15th Century. This obscure citadel was unearthed inside the walls of a larger Georgian building and was later restored to its original glory. A striking, fortified tower residing in the sprawling Phoenix Park, this medieval, stone-built castle instantly stands out in contrast to its surrounding lawns and buildings. An escape into Ireland's military history, the Ashtown Castle is, indefinitely a stirring piece of historical Dublin that time forgot. Now ornamented with a courtyard, the grounds of the castle have been a favored venue for musical concerts.
Official residence of the President of Ireland, this sprawling white edifice sits gracefully on verdant, rolling lawns of the massive Phoenix Park. Built in 1751 as a rather luxurious home for the park ranger, the house became the residence of successive viceroys, who oversaw British rule in Ireland. In 1938, it became home to the president of the newly-independent Ireland and today, welcomes some 15,000 visitors each year. Priding itself on its moniker 'The Irish White House', this residence is home to a massive assemblage of ornate rooms, sprawling quarters and a decadent chapel. A picture-perfect edifice replete with great Irish fervor, Áras an Uachtaráin is beautifully ornamented with columns, a framed pediment, a poised portico and gardens, the flowers of which are enlivened with bursts of color come summer. 'The Áras' has gracefully aged well over 260 years, and is indefinitely one of the most priceless possessions of Dublin.
Towering over the bustling O'Connell Street, the 'Monument of Light' is like a soaring needle striving to meet the heavens above. Symbolizing the true spirit of contemporary Dublin, the spire pierces through clear blue skies during the day and is an effervescent display of sparkling steel come night. Boasting a textured base, this upward-tapering 120 meters(390 feet) pillar is skirted by a troupe of historic edifices. Its imposing visage dominates the city's skyline, perpetually awarded by gazes of awe. The monumental Spire of Dublin is an incredible representation of the city's urban and technological prowess, that has also been a recipient of an array of accolades.