Marsh’s Library
Marsh’s Library things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Marsh's Library, situated in St. Patrick's Close, adjacent to St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Ireland is a well-preserved library of the late Renaissance and early Enlightenment. When it opened to the public in 1707 it was the first public library in Ireland.
attractions: Dublin Castle, St Stephen's Green, St Patrick's Cathedral, Stephen's Green Shopping Centre, The Brazen Head, Ha'penny Bridge, Molly Malone Statue, Christ Church Cathedral, George's Street Arcade, Irish Whiskey Museum, restaurants: The Temple Bar Pub, Porterhouse Parliament Street, The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant, Bad Bobs Temple Bar, O'Neills Pub & Kitchen, The Hairy Lemon, Quays, Café en Seine, Lemon Jelly Cafe, Bunsen Temple Bar
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Marsh's Library, situated in St. Patrick's Close, adjacent to St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Ireland is a well-preserved library of the late Renaissance and early Enlightenment. When it opened to the public in 1707 it was the first public library in Ireland.
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mindfultravelmindfultravel
4.4K66
Marsh's Library in Dublin, Ireland, is a literary treasure that takes you on a captivating journey through time. Like an enchanted sanctuary nestled near the head of the Coombe, this hidden gem transports you to a bygone era, where the echoes of Anglo-Irish literary legends like Dean Swift still reverberate through its hallowed halls. Step inside and prepare to be enchanted by the purest embodiment of the 18th century. Marsh's Library, also known as St. Sepulchre, stands as a testament to the resilience of literature and the power of preservation. Its unassuming red brick exterior belies the wonders that lie within, as if guarding secrets of the past, waiting to be discovered. As you step through its doors, you are transported to a world frozen in time. The interior, meticulously preserved since the days of Queen Anne, captivates with its unrivaled authenticity. Oaken benches and stained reading desks beckon you to lose yourself in the pages of literary gems, while wide-planked flooring and an arched ceiling create an ambiance that feels almost sacred. Marvel at the carved and lettered gables, adorned with hand-painted mitres, as they whisper stories of the past. Every detail, lovingly spared from the hand of the restorer, bears witness to the library's defiance against the erosion of time. It stands as a living testament to the unyielding spirit of literature, challenging time itself to fade its grandeur. Within these walls lie priceless literary treasures from centuries past. Immerse yourself in the magic of the written word as you explore the collection of over 25,000 books and 300 manuscripts. Each page holds the power to transport you to distant lands, evoke forgotten emotions, and kindle the flames of imagination. The library's impressive assortment includes 80 incunabula, rare books printed before 1501, unlocking a portal to the dawn of the printed word. Imagine the readers who once roamed these halls, locked within cages along with the precious volumes they sought. These barriers, designed to deter impecunious students tempted by ownership, stand as a testament to the enduring allure of knowledge and the lengths one would go to safeguard it. Marsh's Library beckons you to embrace the privilege of exploring these literary treasures, connecting with the collective wisdom of generations past. As you wander through the library's corridors, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. It is a place where the past is alive, where the tangible embodiment of history surrounds you. Scholars and students continue to engage with these volumes, their eager hands turning the same pages that were touched centuries ago. Marsh's Library is more than a repository of books; it is a portal to an era when knowledge was cherished, preserved, and shared with reverence. Visiting Marsh's Library is an experience that transcends the boundaries of time and space. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the literary tapestry of the past, to hear the whispers of long-forgotten words, and to be inspired by the legacy of those who came before us. Like a time capsule of the written word, this enchanting sanctuary invites you to step into its embrace and embark on a journey that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Fly SmarketingFly Smarketing
10
I discovered Marsh’s Library on TikTok before our planned Dublin visit and was so glad I did! My husband & I went here right after our Trinity Tour & we loved Marsh’s more! You read that correctly! (Not to make it a competition as both libraries have their highlights, we just weren’t able to experience Trinity as intended due to the conservation project currently underway.) Marsh’s library was old book heaven. You could get much closer to the books and knowledgeable staff were everywhere waiting to answer questions & assist. It felt much more personal of a tour & we spent ample time looking around. We purchased “The Lost Library Book” by Amanda Bell (a children’s book) in the gift shop, after speaking with an employee about Marsh’s missing books. My husband and I were so inspired by this story, we half-jokingly told each other we’d love to stay in Dublin if only to peruse antique and junk shops to find other missing books. We can’t wait to read this incredible story to our little one when he arrives (I’m pregnant & we bought the book for our babe). This is a truly magical place for any book lover & I highly recommend. The entry fee is affordable & you exit the museum into the most quaint garden, that only amplifies your sense of wonder about the entire place. (A staff member was kind enough to snap a quick photo of us with the wool sweater we got for our baby boy. This was our “gender announcement” - we had hoped to take this photo at Marsh’s before we visited & this ended up working out perfectly. Thank you for helping us share we are expecting a little boy - we hope to bring him back here one day!)
Hannah EvansHannah Evans
90
Marsh's Library in Dublin is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's literary and cultural heritage. Founded in 1701 by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh, this historic library is one of the oldest in Ireland and houses a remarkable collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts. Stepping into Marsh's Library is like stepping back in time, with its beautifully preserved interior and atmospheric ambiance. Visitors can explore the library's extensive collection, which includes works dating back to the medieval period, as well as notable first editions and historical documents. The library's knowledgeable staff are passionate about sharing the rich history and significance of the collection, making it a rewarding experience for bibliophiles and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you're delving into the literary treasures of the past or simply marveling at the architectural beauty of the library itself, Marsh's Library is a must-visit destination for anyone with a love for literature and history in the heart of Dublin.
The Romanian GuyThe Romanian Guy
50
Yes this is Ireland's oldest public library, but the brilliance of it defies that simple description. You're in a space in which some of Ireland's best writers have resided and worked. Even more impressive are the remarkably well informed staff, as I walked in Olga began to regale me with incredible stories. All the staff have them, so take the time to meet with them, as a scholar I recognized I was in a sacred academic space and they helped to bring it to life for me. Don't miss the little iron gate as you walk in and you'll realize quickly you're walking into some brilliant history! Many thanks from Austin Texas, and don't forget about the Lego mini fig scavenger hunt 😁
Toufic ChahinToufic Chahin
70
Be you Irish or an International visitor..the first public library in Dublin in 1707 for aristocratic men, is a treat. Most stunning is to see the ‘cages’ still there, where the richest of rich men had to be locked in just in case they ran off with a book. That is just how rare and precious books were. Books with bullet holes, a chair for James Joyce & old maps for adventurers- all to be found within. A physical and visceral snap shot in time where you can touch history & you can really reflect on the marvel of books, how rare access to books once was and how far education has come. High on the tour guide memorability factor.
Catherine NorrisCatherine Norris
00
Nearby Attractions Of Marsh’s Library
Dublin Castle
St Stephen's Green
St Patrick's Cathedral
Stephen's Green Shopping Centre
The Brazen Head
Ha'penny Bridge
Molly Malone Statue
Christ Church Cathedral
George's Street Arcade
Irish Whiskey Museum

Dublin Castle
4.3
(11.8K)Click for details

St Stephen's Green
4.7
(11.6K)Click for details

St Patrick's Cathedral
4.5
(8.6K)Click for details

Stephen's Green Shopping Centre
4.2
(7.9K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Marsh’s Library
The Temple Bar Pub
Porterhouse Parliament Street
The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant
Bad Bobs Temple Bar
O'Neills Pub & Kitchen
The Hairy Lemon
Quays
Café en Seine
Lemon Jelly Cafe
Bunsen Temple Bar

The Temple Bar Pub
4.6
(14.2K)$$$
Click for details

Porterhouse Parliament Street
4.5
(4.1K)Click for details

The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant
4.6
(3.5K)$$
Click for details

Bad Bobs Temple Bar
4.4
(3.4K)$$
Click for details
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