A BRIDGE TO THE MEDIEVAL PAST

A "Journey Through Time" will guide you through ten memorable episodes in Dublin's Medieval history. Events such as the building of Dublin Castle, the Black Death, the crowning of Lambert Simnel (pretender to the English throne), the Feast of Corpus Christi, and performances of Biblical plays by members of trade guilds are depicted through sets and models.

The first floor houses life-size reconstructions of medieval interiors, and the artefacts from the Wood Quay excavations (see also Dublin’s Viking Adventure). A 13th century dockside, a leather worker outside his timber-frame house, and a 15th century merchant's kitchen all help bring history to life. Wine from Bordeaux, pottery from Saintonge, and spices from the Orient demonstrate that Medieval Dubliners appreciated the finer things in life.

Visitors may then climb the 96 steps to the top of the 17th century St. Michael's Tower, admire the view, and compare old Dublin with the new. The realities of life long ago can be experienced by trying on parts of a suit of armour, or dressing up in Medieval robes.

Educational tools & preparing for your visit

Groups who wish to increase their historical knowledge of Dublin and Ireland are offered a wealth of information. Dvblinia, developed for education and research purposes, is situated in the former Synod Hall of the Ch urch of Ireland. The Cathedral, which was restored in the 19th century, contains many magnificent neo-Gothic architectural features.

Information is available in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. A detailed teacher’s pack including an 8-page history of Medieval Dublin, is available for primary and secondary school teachers. It includes a list of recommended reading, together with worksheets for students. Teachers are entitled to a FREE preliminary visit on request, and an Education Officer is on site to answer questions. Guided tours can be arranged, but it is advisable to arrange this in advance.

The Malton Room Coffee Shop contains original 18th century prints by James Malton, portraying medieval life in Dublin. The Great Hall was originally used for the ecclesiastical meetings (Synods) of the bishops and the Council of the Diocese.

A short walking tour through the heart of Medieval Dublin has been developed to enable visitors to discover the fragmented remains of the Medieval town (information on this is available from the Curator). Two other tours in Dublin related to Medieval Dublin are the Woodkey Walk, showing artwork inspired by Dublin's past, and the Malton Trail which passes the most beautiful buildings in Dublin.