National Museum of Ireland—Archaeology
There are four locations under the National Museum of Ireland umbrella—Natural History on Merrion Street, Decorative Arts and History in Dublin 7, Country Life in Co. Mayo, and this, the Archaeology branch on Kildare Street. You’ll find a serious array of artifacts under its impressively ornate Palladian roof, spanning from prehistoric times through the development of Irish civilization. Although the treasures are remarkable, the building itself (which opened in 1890) never fails to impress. With eight main permanent exhibitions, the scale of this museum can feel a little intimidating, so map out your route ahead if there’s something specific you’re interested in seeing. Don’t miss the Kingship and Sacrifice exhibition, where you’ll find Bog Bodies—human remains found in Ireland’s boglands during the Iron Age. Today they’re perfectly preserved, complete with hair, teeth, and even eyelashes.
