the national museum of ireland decorative arts and history

There are many exhibitions on show in the museum, one being, “The Way We Wore” which displays the different costumes that Irish people wore over a 300 hundred year period right up until the 1960’s.

“Airgead” is another interesting exhibition that displays the different coins and currency that Ireland has used from the 10th century up to the present day.

The museum was built in 1709 under the design of Thomas Burgh. It housed troops for over 300 years and it was known locally as the Barracks.

In the 1800’s it was called The Royal Barracks.

In 1922 it changed to the Collins Barracks, named after Michael Collins who was the head of the Irish Free State.

In 1994 Collins Barracks was signed over to become the Museum of Decorative Arts and History. After three years of renovation and restoration, the museum opened its doors in 1997.

 

The museum is located within walking distance from Hueston Train Station.

Dublin’s Hop-on Hop-off tour buses stop here, the Luas (Red line) also stops right outside the museum, at the “Museum” stop.

Buses from: Aston Quay - 90 and  Wellington Quay – 25, 25A, 66, 67 stop at the museum.

Mondays: Closed Tuesday to Saturday: 10am – 5pm Closed- Good Friday and Christmas Day.