National Gallery Dublin
The National Gallery of Ireland should be on every Dublin visitor's must-see list. This fantastic gallery houses the best of Ireland's art, as well as a fantastic European collection that rivals those in other major cities. Housing over 3000 works, the gallery is a perfect half-day attraction.

The main attraction here is the extensive collection of works by Irish artists. Some of the most fascinating of these are by painter Jack B. Yeats, brother of famous Irish poet William Butler Yeats, and one of the 20th Century's most important Irish artists. Landscapes by O'Connor, Hone and Roberts also hang here, as well as portraits by Barry and Orpen.

The European Collection spans from the 14th to the 20th Century, and includes mostly works from the Renaissance era. The Italian School makes up a large part of this collection, including works by Fra Angelico, Titian, and Caravaggio, and is one of the largest collections of works by Italian masters outside of Italy. The French School us also well represented here, with beautiful works by Claude, Vouet, and Poussin.

The section of the National Gallery that houses the National Portrait Collection reopened recently, and the collection here is astounding. Displayed here are over 50 portraits of men and woman that have shaped Ireland's cultural heritage, including a new addition: a portrait of U2 singer and political activist Bono, by Louis de Brocquey.

While wandering through the many painting galleries, be sure to spend some time looking at the many sculptures that decorate the rooms. Many of these are Irish Portrait busts, created by Ireland's most accomplished sculptors. Stained glass pieces by various Irish artists can be seen throughout as well, along with numerous pieces of Irish furniture and decorative arts from the 18th Century.

The museum also owns over 8000 works on paper, which cannot be on display at all times due to their fragile nature. Make your way over to the Diageo Print Room to view a small collection of these which is changed from time to time so that the public has a chance to view a wider range of this fine collection. This wonderful display includes sketches done by many of the Old Masters, 18th Century mezzotint portrait prints, and various sketches and designs.

Website Official National Gallery Dublin Website