Dublin Castle (Dublin)

 castle, museum, historic landmark

Dame St, Dublin 2, Ireland
www.dublincastle.ie/

Dublin Castle (Irish: Caisleán Bhaile Átha Cliath), is a major Irish governmental complex, formerly the fortified seat of British rule in Ireland until 1922. Most of the complex dates from the 18th century, though a castle has stood on the site since the days of King John, the first Lord of Ireland. The Castle served as the seat of English, then later British government of Ireland under the Lordship of Ireland (1171–1541), the Kingdom of Ireland (1541–1800), and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland (1800–1922). Upon establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922, the complex was ceremonially handed over to the newly formed Provisional Government led by Michael Collins.

Today the complex is used for several state functions, among them; the inauguration President of Ireland, hosting official State visits as well as more informal foreign affairs engagements, State banquets and Government policy launches.