The historic heart of Dublin is the Dublin Castle. King John of England built it in the 13th century. As a fortress, prison, treasury, court of law, and seat of English administration in Ireland, it served for over 700 years. Currently, it is used for the inauguration of Presidents and important state events.


Dublin's name was given to the city by the dark pool ("Dubh Linn"). The pool lies on the lower course of the River Poddle before it intersects with the Liffey. The Liffey was much broader when the castle stood, and both rivers effectively protected the court. The Poddle flows under the complex today.

Accessibility 

Wheelchair users can access the ground floor (including all of the alcoves displaying historical information) as well as the first floor via an elevator! Some of the passageways are a bit tight, but my power wheelchair was able to make it through (longer scooters might have difficulty).