Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university. In the heart of Dublin, its Georgian campus houses the historic library that preserves the Book of Kells, a 9th-century illuminated manuscript, as well as Ireland's oldest harp. A formative institution for major writers such as Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, and Samuel Beckett, Trinity remains an active university, attended each year by approximately 13,000 students.

Why visit Trinity College

Trinity College brings together three interests rarely found in the same location: a beautifully preserved Georgian architectural heritage, a historic library housing a medieval manuscript embedded in Western imagination, and thriving university life at the heart of Dublin. The visit appeals to enthusiasts of history, literature, illuminated manuscripts, and architecture.

The campus also offers a peaceful retreat just steps from Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, and major shopping streets. Allow 1 to 2 hours if you wish to see the historic library and wander through the inner courtyards.

History of Trinity College

The university was inaugurated in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, modeled after the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge. For its first two centuries, the institution remained reserved for Protestant students. It opened to Catholics in 1793, though teaching remained exclusively male. In 1904, the first women were admitted.

Trinity College shaped several prominent figures in Irish and British letters:

• Jonathan Swift, author of "Gulliver's Travels"
• Oliver Goldsmith, Irish poet
• Bram Stoker, author of Dracula
• Oscar Wilde, former student of classical literature
• Samuel Beckett, Nobel Prize in Literature

The university today welcomes approximately 13,000 students annually, Irish and international, and boasts nearly 150 student societies that animate campus life.

What to see at Trinity College

The Georgian campus

The main buildings date from the 18th and 19th centuries and are organized around paved courtyards and manicured lawns in characteristic Georgian style. The entire complex can be explored freely during the day and offers a clear reading of the university's architectural evolution.

The Arts and Social Sciences Complex

Built in 1978 and accessible from Nassau Street, this contemporary complex was designed by Paul Koralek, who also designed the Berkeley Library on campus. It houses the Hyde Gallery of Modern Art, which hosts contemporary art exhibitions.

The Old Library and the Long Room

Built between 1712 and 1732, the Old Library houses one of Ireland's most significant heritage collections. Its main hall, the Long Room, measures 65 meters long and contains over 200,000 ancient books, arranged on two levels of dark wood shelving. A series of marble busts punctuates the central aisle.

A display case presents Ireland's oldest harp, made of willow and oak with bronze strings. This instrument is one of the country's national symbols.

Since 1801, the library has benefited from legal deposit of works published in Ireland and Great Britain. Its collection now reaches nearly 3 million books spread across 8 buildings.

Good to know: the Old Library is undergoing extensive renovation (Old Library Redevelopment Project). Some collections may be relocated or presented under special conditions during the work. Check access status before your visit.

The Book of Kells

The library's masterpiece, the Book of Kells contains the Latin text of the four Gospels, written in finely illuminated calligraphy. Its creation is attributed to monks from Iona, in the early 9th century. The manuscript was entrusted to Trinity College in 1661. An educational exhibition presents the historical context, illumination techniques, and several pages reproduced in large format before access to the original work.

Practical information

• Campus and garden access: free and open all day.
• Old Library and Book of Kells: paid access, online booking strongly recommended. Moderate admission for adults, free for young children, student and senior discounts available.
• Visit duration: allow 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for the library, 1 to 2 hours including the campus.
• Crowds: prefer opening time in the morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups.

Prices and hours change regularly, particularly due to renovation work: check the official website before your visit.

How to get there

The campus is located in Dublin's city center and is easily reached on foot from most tourist attractions.

• On foot: approximately 10 minutes from Dublin Castle or City Hall, just minutes from Temple Bar and Grafton Street.
• By bus: many lines serve stops near the campus, including 25, 25a, 25b, 26, 47, 49, 54a, 61, 66, 66a, 66b, 67, 84x, and 150.
• By car: traffic and parking are challenging in the city center. Q-Park Setanta, immediately nearby, is the most convenient car park.

Nearby attractions

Trinity College's location makes it easy to combine several visits in a single half-day:

• Temple Bar, a historic district with cobbled streets, just steps from campus.
• Dublin Castle and City Hall, 10 minutes on foot.
• Grafton Street and St Stephen's Green for strolling and shopping.
• To further explore medieval Ireland, the Medieval Mile Museum in Kilkenny usefully extends the Book of Kells theme.
• To discover other facets of the country, also consult our Dublin guide.

Frequently asked questions

Extend your discovery

Trinity College is an excellent starting point for exploring Dublin and, more broadly, Ireland's heritage. To plan a customized itinerary including the capital, western landscapes, and historic sites, consult our trip ideas for Ireland.