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History · Leinster, Dublin

Dublin City Hall

Former Royal Exchange turned seat of city government, with a free history exhibition in its vaulted basement

  • EraGeorgian
  • AdmissionFree (Rotunda and Story of the Capital exhibition)
  • HoursMon–Sat 10:00–17:00; closed Sun and bank holidays (hours vary when private events are held)
Dublin City Hall

Built as the Royal Exchange for Dublin's merchants and traders, this domed neoclassical building was taken over by Dublin Corporation in 1852 and remains the seat of Dublin City Council today. Its rotunda ceiling frescoes depict the mythical founding of the city and key civic events, and the free 'Story of the Capital' exhibition in the vaulted basement traces Dublin's history from Viking settlement to the present.

Practical information for Dublin City Hall
Admission Free (Rotunda and Story of the Capital exhibition)
Hours Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00; closed Sun and bank holidays (hours vary when private events are held)
Address Dublin City Hall, Dame Street, Dublin 2, D02 T210, Ireland

Why it matters

Michael Collins lay in state here in August 1922 following his death at Béal na Bláth during the Civil War

Site facts

Built
1769–1779
Architect
Thomas Cooley

Weather through the year in Ireland

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Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding

Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Ireland.

Location

Dublin City Hall, Dame Street, Dublin 2, D02 T210, Ireland

53.3439, -6.2672 View on map

Highlights

  • Domed rotunda supported by 12 columns with painted ceiling frescoes
  • Free 'Story of the Capital' exhibition in the vaulted basement
  • Statues of Daniel O'Connell and other civic figures in the entrance hall