Trinity College Dublin
Dublin's Trinity College is a prestigious and famed establishment, and is one of the finest education centers in Ireland. The college has educated many notable artistic, literary, political and historical figures, and its rich tradition of excellence continues to this day.

The college was established in 1592 by a small group of Dublin citizens, very soon before the Tudor monarchy had extended its authority over all of Ireland. The building of the college was a slow process, but over the next fifty years the college grew to a considerable size and stature, developed a curriculum, obtained many students and teachers, and began its now-famed library collection. The college would see its times of hardship in the coming years however, with two civil wars ravaging the country. In 1689 the college was turned into a Barracks for the soldiers of James II, during which time all learning and activity was put to halt.

During the next few hundred year the Library, Dining Hall, Parliamentary Square, the drive and other buildings were slowly constructed. The school also saw many changes academically, and as the times changed the curriculum of the school did as well, adding on various new programs, lessons, teachers and administrators. In 1904 women were finally permitted to attend Trinity, and soon after in 1908 a women's hall of residence was founded. The college now educates over 12,000 students every year.

The college covers over 40 acres in the heart of Dublin, and its buildings demonstrate the architectural trends of over three centuries. Visitors will enjoy taking walking tour of the campus, where numerous historical sites and artifacts make their homes. These tours are escorted by students of the college who possess a wealth of local history. The Book of Kells is probably the most famous attraction to Trinity College. This elaborately illustrated 9th-Century manuscript was written by four Irish monks, and is on display at the Old Library. Within its four volumes are the Gospels, each meticulously hand printed and decorated with images and Celtic designs. Also worth visiting is the Dublin Experience, a multi-media show illustrating the history and culture of Ireland's capital city.

While touring the campus grounds, be sure to visit the Campanile, probably the most well known landmark of Trinity College. The Chapel is also a beautiful piece or architecture, completed at the turn of the 18th Century and used as a place of worship for all Christian Denominations. The Dining hall was built around 1760, after the original hall collapsed. A fire ravaged the building in 1984, but it was quickly restored and received the Europa nostra 1987 Medal of Honor for its brilliant restoration.

Website Official Trinity College Dublin Website