National Gallery of Ireland

A free art museum? In the heart of Dublin? It exists! The National Gallery of Ireland sits right here before us on Merrion Square. It’s not just a pretty facade. This building holds a captivating story of art, legacy, and even a bit of detective work. The National Gallery of Ireland was founded in 1854, opening its doors a decade later. It was established after the success of the Great Industrial Exhibition, where an art display proved incredibly popular. People realized Dublin needed a permanent collection, and thanks to individuals like railway magnate William Dargan and barrister John Edward Pigot, the National Gallery of Ireland was born. The Gallery boasts an impressive collection of Irish and European art. Think Italian Baroque, Dutch Masters, and of course, a robust representation of Irish artists. It wasn’t always this extensive though. The National Gallery of Ireland began with a mere 112 paintings. It grew significantly through donations and bequests. The Milltown Wing, for instance, houses the collection donated by the Dowager Countess of Milltown. Her generous gift included paintings, sculptures, furniture, and even a library. Then there’s the fascinating story of Caravaggio’s “The Taking of Christ.” Lost for centuries and known only through copies, this masterpiece was rediscovered in a Jesuit house of studies right here in Dublin. The National Gallery of Ireland has displayed this treasure, even loaning it to Italy for Caravaggio’s 400th anniversary. The gallery’s growth continued with the Beit Wing, added in 1962. Further donations enriched the collection. Alfred Beit gifted masterpieces by Velázquez, Murillo, Steen, Vermeer, and Raeburn. Speaking of Vermeer, the “Lady Writing a Letter with her Maid” is a highlight of the Dutch Masters collection, offering a glimpse into 17th-century domestic life. And let’s not forget the Irish art. From Frederic William Burton’s romantic “The Meeting on the Turret Stairs” to the evocative landscapes of Paul Henry, the Gallery showcases the richness and diversity of Irish artistic expression. Today, the National Gallery of Ireland continues to evolve. The Millennium Wing, opened in 2002, provides a modern counterpoint to the historical wings. This Gallery is more than a museum. It’s a vibrant cultural hub, offering free admission, talks, tours, and even a smartphone app. It’s a testament to the power of art to inspire, educate, and connect us to the past and present.