Exploring Dublin Castle | Ireland

Located in the heart of the city, Dublin Castle can easily be passed up. Hidden amongst a row of fish and chip shops and bars is a giant hidden treasure. 

I was surprised to learn that general admission does not give you access to certain areas of the castle. We opted for waiting on a guided tour in order to see some of the restricted areas. Built in the 12th century (although a fortress stood at the same location hundreds of year previously) Dublin Castle has played a prominent role in Irish politics up until this day. 

The castle has a serious of structures built in different centuries. Each building served it's own purpose, ranging from state apartments to religious sanctuaries. With it's location in the heart of the city, the castle has played an important role in Irish history and politics for over a thousand years.  The current President of Ireland was inaugurated within the grounds in 2011. 

What are some of your favorite castles around the world?

xoxo

Christ Church Cathedral | Dublin, Ireland

Who loves afternoon strolls through thousand year old churches? This girl does!

During my trip to Ireland I spent a fair bit of time walking past Christ Church Cathedral. Located between our AirBnB and Temple Bar, Christ Church was the most prominent landmark I would pass. It was a couple days into my trip before I decided to actually buy tickets. As much as I love exploring European Churches (you can see more of my adventures here and here), I'm not always willing to pay. However, I decided to sacrifice a couple of euros in the name of history!

Christ Church Cathedral is unique in several ways. For starters, it was largely restored and expanded by the Victorians. Much of what you see today is Victorian handiwork. However, the church's history dates back to 1030 after King Sihtrygg Silkbeard (real name, I swear) went on a pilgrimage to Rome. The church was stripped of many of its belongings during the reign of Henry VIII, however most of these items were restored thanks to Mary I.

Christ Church Cathedral is also home to one of the largest crypts in both Ireland and the UK. While it has been largely renovated unlike Gloucester Cathedral's famous crypt, this crypt is home to some fascinating pieces of sculpture that are kept underground for safe storage. 

The famous "Cat & Rat" who became mummified after climbing into the cathedral's organ.

What are some of your favorite churches in Europe?

xoxo

Howth Cliffside Walk | Ireland

I never considered myself an 'outdoors' kind of girl growing up. Living in Texas, summers were brutally hot and I would spend my time soaking up any sort of air-conditioning I could find. It wasn't until I was an adult, after my move to England, that I really discovered my love for the outdoors.

Ireland is known for is rolling hills and stunning coastline. During my visit to Dublin I knew I had to get out to some of this natural beauty. As I had decided not to rent a car (I have a major fear of getting behind the wheel in countries that drive on the opposite side of the road), my choices were limited. I scoured Pinterest for the perfect hike, feeling slightly discouraged as almost all required some sort of drive. Finally, I came across this tiny seaside town less than 20 minutes outside Dublin's city centre. With a quick train ride and I had arrived in the beautiful town of Howth. 

Irish words can be tricky sometimes. I was explaining to my taxi driver the night before the hike where I were planning on going.

Me "Howth. H-O-W-T-H." 

Taxi Driver "Oh, you mean Hoath!"

Me "Hoath? No, we're going to Howth!"

Taxi Diver "You Americans an your accents" *proceeds to tell stories of other accents that he finds hilarious*

Long story short, Howth is pronounced HOATH and the Irish will laugh at you if you think it is any other way. 

The town of Howth is located on a peninsula, meaning any which way you walk will be filled with scenic views. I opted for the Cliffside Walk to the lighthouse. The weather was beautiful and I found myself peeling off layers as I trekked on. There are several trails you can follow, but my total hike lasted a short two hours. 

Where are some of your favorite places to hike?

xoxo