Trinity College Dublin is not only an educational institution but also a treasure trove of history, culture and knowledge. As one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, it attracts visitors from all over the world who come to admire its magnificent architecture, immerse themselves in its rich history and explore the beauty of its campus.
History of Trinity College
The college was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I as the College of the Holy and Undivided Trinity for Protestant students. It was modelled on the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and was also intended to be federal in character.
The Campus
The Trinity College campus is an architectural masterpiece with a mixture of old and modern buildings. The main attraction is undoubtedly the historic Main Building, which dominates the campus. With its Gothic towers and elegant courtyards, it takes visitors back in time. But green lawns, quiet walks and hidden corners also invite you to linger and relax.
Famous alumni
Trinity College has a rich history of alumni who have gone on to achieve great success in a variety of fields. These include Nobel Prize winners Samuel Beckett, Ernest Walton and William C. Campbell. Famous writers such as Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker (Dracula) studied at Trinity, as did Jonathan Swift (Gulliver’s Travels) and the political philosopher Edmund Burke. William Rowan Hamilton is one of the outstanding mathematicians.
Contemporary alumni such as Oscar-nominated film director Lenny Abrahamson and Game of Thrones actor Jack Gleeson have also developed their talents at Trinity College.
Old Library and Book of Kells
The Old Library is the centrepiece of Trinity College Dublin and an absolute must for any visitor to Dublin. Built in the 18th century, it is the oldest library in the city.
Inside the Old Library is the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is a famous medieval manuscript dating from the eighth or ninth century. It is considered an outstanding example of insular illumination and was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2011. It contains the four Gospels with full-page images of Christ, Mary with the Child and the Evangelists. The Book of Kells may not be photographed.
The Old Library is not only a place of history and knowledge, but also a place of research. It houses the library’s oldest and most valuable books, maps, manuscripts and archives, with collections dating from the 13th century BC to the present day. The Long Room hosts exhibitions that showcase the library’s rich collections and encourage further research.
Book of Kells Experience
The Book of Kells Experience is an immersive digital journey that offers visitors an insight into the illuminated pages of the 9th century manuscript and the collections of the Old Library. It includes the Book of Kells & the Old Library, the Long Room, Gaia, Secret Life of the Collections, Book of Kells 360 and the Long Room reimagined. It is a spectacular journey in light and sound through the history of these ancient masterpieces.
Trinity College Dublin is not only an educational institution but also a vibrant centre of knowledge and culture. With its rich history, stunning campus and the world-famous Book of Kells, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of the Middle Ages and discover the beauty and significance of Ireland’s heritage.
