County Dublin - European City of Culture in 1991
Having redefined itself as one of Europe's most cosmopolitan cities, Dublin embodies a unique freshness that ensures countless visitors throng her streets every year. The energy in the capital is unmistakable, complimented by a fantastic selection of restaurants, bars and attractions. Dublin Bay, with its great sweep of coast from the rocky brow of Howth in the north to the headland of Dalkey in the south, is a fitting introduction to one of Europe's finest capitals. The city is spread over the broad valley of the River Liffey, with the Wicklow Hills sheltering it on the south. In addition to its splendid public buildings, Dublin is particularly rich in domestic architecture of the 128th century. Fine Georgian mansions, many of them with historical association, lend sober beauty to the city's wide streets and spacious squares.
There is a wealth of interest for the visitor to Dublin in its architecture, its fashionable shopping centres, its wide range of entertainment and important events. The beautiful surroundings of the city are very easy to get to; a short journey brings one to a pleasant beach or to the Dublin Mountains. An exciting selection of bars and clubs are all centrally located, allowing for a great night's, dining, drinking and dancing.
The first early Celtic habitation of Dublin was on the banks of the Liffey, however, it wasn't until the Vikings put in an appearance that the city became a permanent fixture. By the ninth century raids from the north had become common-place with some of the invader’s choosing to remain on Irish soil - intermarriage eventually ensued and subsequently led to the establishment of a thriving trading port in Dublin.
Following the 1916 rising and having secured independence from Britain, the Civil War in Ireland succeeded in inflicting massive damage to many of the buildings in Dublin city, including the burning of the Four Courts in 1922 and the further destruction of O'Connell Street along its way.
Dublin today, however, tells an altogether different story. The economic turnaround and cultural rebirth of the city has lifted the capital out of times past, welcoming a new era now fully enjoyed and expanding by the day.
