🇮🇪 Trinity College Dublin (Book of Kells & Long Room)
Trinity College Dublin — The Book of Kells and the Old Library · 더블린 시티센터
Location
Overview
Trinity College Dublin, Ireland's oldest university (founded 1592), houses in its Old Library the 9th-century illuminated Gospel manuscript known as the Book of Kells and the majestic 65-metre Long Room, making it one of Dublin's most visited sights. As of 2026 the Old Library is in the midst of a major conservation and redevelopment project: most of the Long Room's books have been temporarily removed (only the first four bays remain intact, with Luke Jerram's 7-metre illuminated Earth sculpture 'Gaia' suspended at the centre), yet the Book of Kells and the Long Room stay open to visitors, now paired with an immersive digital exhibition, the Book of Kells Experience, in the Pavilion. Entry is by timed slot, so booking online in advance is strongly recommended.
Book of Kells: the richly decorated 9th-century Gospel manuscript, with only two pages (folios) shown per day and rotated regularly for conservation (currently a Gospel of John opening).
The Long Room: the iconic barrel-vaulted chamber lined with marble busts; during the works most books are gone, only the first four bays remain stocked, and 'Gaia' hangs at its centre.
The Trinity (Brian Boru) Harp: the 15th-century wooden harp that became the national emblem of Ireland, on display.
Book of Kells Experience: an immersive digital exhibition in the Pavilion that brings the manuscript's world to life (audio guide in 13 languages).
Trinity campus: a stroll through historic cobbled squares, Georgian architecture and the Campanile bell tower.
Good to know
RulesEntry is by timed slot and tickets are non-refundable once purchased. Book online in advance via the official site (visittrinity.ie).
SeasonIn peak season (June–September) slots often sell out days ahead. The first slot of the day is quietest, and summer opening hours are extended (verify the latest times).
CautionAvoid unofficial resale sites and street ticket sellers, which risk overcharging or invalid tickets; pay only through official channels.
SafetyPickpockets operate in central Dublin (Grafton Street, O'Connell Street) and in visitor queues, so keep bags in front of you.
MannersThis is a quiet exhibition space: keep noise down and do not touch the manuscript or display cases; flash and tripod photography are restricted in the Treasury (Book of Kells) area.
RulesThe Old Library stays open through 2027, then closes for full conservation for roughly 2–3 years (reopening expected around 2030). Confirm current access and where items are displayed before you visit.
Practical info
It sits on College Green in central Dublin, reached via the Luas (tram) Green Line 'Trinity/Dawson' stop, Pearse DART station, and many Dublin Bus routes; a Leap Card is handy for public transport. Opening is roughly daily from about 08:30–09:30 until 17:00–19:00 (extended in summer); admission is around €25–26 for adults with under-12s free and family/student/senior concessions, so confirm current fares, hours and tickets on the official site.
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