10 fun and interesting Dublin facts

1. The Capital of Ireland

In 1922, Dublin was thrust into the spotlight when the partition of Ireland occurred, making it the capital of the newly formed Irish Free State. This status was cemented when the Republic of Ireland was declared in 1949, with Dublin remaining the capital city. As a result, Dublin has become a hub of political and cultural activity, with many of the country's most important institutions and landmarks located in the city.

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2. One of Ireland's Most Populous Cities

In 2011, Dublin City was home to an estimated 527,612 people, making it one of the most populous cities in Ireland. This population was spread across the city's many neighbourhoods, including the bustling Temple Bar, the historic Liberties, and the vibrant Northside. Dublin City is a vibrant and diverse city, with a rich cultural heritage and a wide range of attractions, from its many museums and galleries to its lively pubs and restaurants.

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3. Dublin's North and South Sides: A Divided City with a Unique Identity

The city of Dublin is divided into two distinct sides, north and south, by the River Liffey. The north is seen as the home of the working-class, while the south is perceived as the domain of the middle and upper middle classes. This division is deeply entrenched in the city's culture, with the two sides having their own unique characteristics and identities. The north is known for its vibrant nightlife, while the south is known for its more refined atmosphere. This divide is a major part of Dublin's identity, and it is something that has been around for centuries.

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4. The City of Rain and Hail Showers

Dublin is known for its mild winters, with rain being the most common form of precipitation. However, hail showers can occur from November to March, and while snow is not unheard of, it is not a regular occurrence.

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5. Dublin Castle: A History of British Rule in Ireland

Dublin Castle, located in the heart of the Irish capital, has a long and storied history. Originally built in the 13th century, it served as the seat of British rule in Ireland for centuries, until the Irish Free State was established in 1922. Today, the castle is a major government complex, housing the Department of the Taoiseach, the Department of Justice and Equality, and the Garda Síochána Museum. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering guided tours and a variety of events throughout the year.

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6. Dublin's 121.2m Spire: A Skyline Standout.

The Spire of Dublin is a 121.2 meter tall monument that stands out in the Dublin skyline. It was nominated for three different awards between 2003 and 2005, making it one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city. The pin-like structure is made of stainless steel and is visible from many parts of the city, making it a popular tourist attraction.

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7. Explore Dublin's Book of Kells!

The Trinity College Library in Dublin is home to one of Ireland's most treasured national artifacts - the Book of Kells. This illuminated manuscript, created by Irish monks in 800 AD, is a stunning example of the country's rich cultural heritage. On permanent display at the library, the Book of Kells is a must-see for anyone visiting Dublin.

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8. Dublin is Most Expensive City in Europe, 58th in World

Dublin is no stranger to high living costs, as evidenced by Mercer's 2011 Worldwide Cost of Living Survey, which ranked the city as the 13th most expensive in the European Union and 58th most expensive in the world. This means that Dublin is more expensive than cities such as Amsterdam, Berlin, and Madrid, but still cheaper than cities like London, Paris, and Zurich.

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9. Dublin's Cycle Lanes Make It a Safe and Convenient Destination

Since the 1990's, Dublin has been investing in cycling infrastructure, and by 2012, the city had an impressive 120 miles of on and off-road cycle lanes. This network of cycle lanes has been designed to make cycling a safe and convenient mode of transport for Dubliners, and has been a major factor in the city's increasing popularity as a cycling destination. The lanes are well-maintained and provide cyclists with easy access to the city's many attractions, making it easier than ever to explore Dublin on two wheels.

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10. Dublin named 'City of Literature' by UNESCO

In 2010, Dublin was awarded the prestigious title of 'City of Literature' by UNESCO as part of their Creative Cities Network. This honour recognises Dublin's rich literary heritage, which includes some of the world's most renowned authors such as James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Bram Stoker. The city is home to a number of literary institutions, such as the Dublin Writers Museum, the Irish Writers Centre, and the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl, which celebrate the city's literary culture. Dublin's designation as a City of Literature is a testament to its vibrant literary history and its ongoing commitment to the promotion of literature and the arts.