On Easter Monday, April 24, 1916, a group of Irish nationalists proclaimed the establishment of the Irish Republic and staged a rebellion against the British government in Ireland. The rebels seized prominent buildings in Dublin. While 1916 was a pivotal year in Irish history, it wasn’t until 1922 that Ireland was declared a Republic. This year we celebrate the anniversary of Ireland’s independence. Dublin is filled with fascinating history, here are some history-themed things to do in Dublin over the Easter break.
2022 Centenary
On 16th January 1922 at 1.45 pm, the last Lord Lieutenant of Ireland formally handed over Dublin Castle to the new Provisional Government. This year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of this historic event, one of the most significant in Irish history which shaped the political landscape of the State as we know it. The treaty negotiators were able to secure “complete independence for the new State in its domestic affairs, powers to levy all taxes, regulate foreign trade, raise an army, and considerable freedom on foreign policy”. The formal transfer of power and the handover of Dublin Castle was a moving but short ceremony, finished in just 45 minutes. This turning point in Ireland’s political and social history is being given its full recognition this year with plenty of our tourist attractions hosting Centenary events and exhibitions.
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle had been a symbol of British Rule in Ireland for many years before the formal exchange of power and the ‘handing over’ of one of Dublin’s most prominent buildings in 1922. This brought a significant cultural and symbolic change for the Irish republic. In January 2022, President Michael D Higgins unveiled a plaque marking 100 years to the day since Dublin Castle was handed over by the British administration to the Provisional Irish Government. The plaque, in Irish and English, is located over the archway between the lower and upper yards of Dublin Castle, where the handover ceremony took place. You can visit Dublin Castle this easter and see the majestic building and the opulent rooms contained within, the gorgeous courtyard, and the gardens in full bloom.
Collins Barracks
‘Proclaiming a Republic: The 1916 Rising’ is the latest of the National Museum of Ireland‘s series of Easter Week exhibitions. The exhibition allows viewers to reflect on 100 years of commemorating and celebrating via the physical objects linking us to the men, women, and children alive and fighting during 1916 rising and beyond. The visitor will also explore the stories of those who were imprisoned and interned over this tumultuous period. Aside from revolutionary artifacts, Collins Barracks has decorative arts and history from all periods and a fascinating military history section. It’s a short walk from Ashling Hotel and Collins Barracks, making it ideal for a history trip for the whole family.
Kilmainham Gaol
Kilmainham Gaol opened in 1796 as the new County Gaol for Dublin and closed its doors for a final time in 1924. It was particularly important around 1916 and housed many of the country’s prominent Republicans and leaders of the 1916 rising. Many members of the Irish Republican movement during the Anglo-Irish War (1919-21) were also detained in Kilmainham Gaol. It was also the site of many unlawful executions of leaders, many of whom have been immortalised in street names, building names, and in song since then. Taking a tour of Kilmainham is an exciting and fascinating tour that mixes political and social history of the state with stories of prisoners. It’s an interesting tour for young and old and can really tie in with history lessons in schools for your little ones in an engaging way.
Easter Hotel Break in Dublin
Celebrate this Easter in Dublin with a history lesson you’ll never forget and enjoy a stay in Ashling Hotel with your whole family. Our family packages are ideal for families of up to five people saving you money on a second bedroom and creating a fun, comfortable space for you to enjoy as a family. Each family room contains a double and 2 single beds, with space for an additional rollaway bed or cot if required. Relax in the comfortable seating area, with plenty of space for the children to enjoy a board game or movie and a treat before bed.
Book your family stay in Dublin this Easter on Ashling Hotel’s official website for our lowest available rates and special offers. Our convenient location in the heart of Dublin is ideal to explore the best things to do in Dublin and our in-house restaurant and bar are perfect to unwind after a long day.
