Dublin, or Baile Atha Cliath as it is known in Gaelic, is a popular tourist destination and the thriving capital of Ireland. Situated on the River Liffey, the city of Dublin attracts thousands of people every year, particularly during March for the St Patrick's Day celebrations.

While the Temple Bar nightlife area of Dublin may feature high on the to-do list, there are plenty of cultural and historical sites worth visiting throughout the city.

One of the most worthwhile destinations to visit within the city is Dublin Castle. Situated on top of the black rock from which Dublin gets its name, the ancient landmark has been at the heart of Irish history since Celtic times.

More recently, the castle has been a major focal point of Irish politics. Although an administrative centre for the British during the Irish occupation, the castle temporarily ceased this role in 1922 after the Irish Civil war. It wasn't until 1938 when Douglas Hyde was inaugurated as president of Ireland that the castle became a political landmark within Ireland once again.

Another popular destination to visit within Dublin - and one that provides a relaxing break from the noise of the city - is Phoenix Park. As the largest enclosed city public park in Europe, Phoenix Park is a unique attraction that draws in thousands of visitors every year. Furthermore, Phoenix Park is home to Dublin Zoo - the forth oldest zoological garden in the world - and contains more than 700 animals and birds from around the world.

Phoenix Park is also the home of the famous Papal Cross, a landmark which was erected to commemorate the visit of Pope John Paul II in the autumn of 1979. Over one million people came from across Ireland to view the Papal Cross and listen to the mass held in Phoenix Park.

Another attraction which draws a considerable amount of attention from visitors is the Old Library Building at Trinity College in Dublin. The main reason for this being that Trinity College contains the Book of Kells. The book, which contains illustrated manuscripts of the four gospels, was transcribed by Celtic monks around 800 AD and is widely considered to be one of Ireland's most important historical treasures.

During its existence the Book of Kells has come under attack, but has always been safeguarded by the Irish monks. Originally housed in Iona where it is believed to have been written, it was transported to Kells in Ireland after several Viking raids threatened its existence.

If you don't know where to begin with the sightseeing, then it is good to know that you can find a wealth of information available on the wide range of attractions from any of the local tourist centres and Dublin hotels. And once you have all the information you require, you can start planning that long list on your itinerary!

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