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Much of what we think we know about Vikings seems to be untrue. For example, it seems that they were actually quite hygienic and never drank out of cups fashioned from the skulls of their enemies. Perhaps worst of all however, is that it’s highly unlikely that they ever went into battle wearing horned helmets. Unfortunately, the part about the Vikings being ruthless marauders is very much a fact as the people of Ireland were to discover to their detriment pretty much throughout the entire 9th Century. However, the Vikings did not only raid; they also traded and established towns. Viking-founded towns in Ireland include Limerick, Wexford, Waterford, Leixlip, and of course Dublin. Before long the Viking presence and culture was accepted by the locals and alliances were formed while intermarriages took place.
Dublinia and the Viking World is a heritage centre located in a beautiful Neo-Gothic Victorian building at the heart of the medieval city that pays homage to this bygone era. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Dublin, Dublinia welcomes some 100,000 visitors every year. The exhibitions within reveal an amazing and informative display of Dublin’s Viking and medieval history by cleverly incorporating reconstructions as well as audio-visual presentations, ancient artifacts, and interactive displays.
The entire experience is very well researched and presented in a manner that is at once breathtaking and extremely educational. Dublinia is open every day except for the 17th of March and between the 23rd and 26th of December. Guided tours are available while a gift and book shop is also included. Family and group tickets are available.
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