Ireland’s renowned institution of scholarship and learning, Trinity College, is a virtual island of academia situated in the very heart of Dublin City. The university was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1 of England and the present day campus covers almost 40 acres.
Its striking façade dates from 1759, and when you pass through its historic archway the extensive cobbled-stone squares and lush lawns seem to draw you back to the antiquated atmosphere of a previous age.
The Book of Kells, one of Ireland’s greatest treasures is on view in Colonnades Gallery. The book dates from the 8th century and represents a tangible link to the early Christian Church. It is one of the oldest documents to have survived from the period and because of its unique artistry, it is priceless.
A manuscript of the four gospels, the richly ornate text was entirely and laboriously hand-written by the monks of the time on vellum and depicts complex and intricate Celtic designs. Written in Latin, the manuscript was presented to Trinity College in the 17th century.
Also not to be missed when visiting Trinity College is the impressive and instructive audiovisual presentation, The Dublin Experience which tells the story of the city and its people from ages past.
