Dublinia: Journey Back to Dublin's Viking, Medieval Pasts
Part interactive exhibit, part learning experience, Dublina brings Dublin’s Viking past to life for visitors of all ages.
Housed in Synod Hall at the river-edge of Dublin’s medieval city limits, Dublinia’s multimedia experience connects visitors to the traditions, tribulations and culture of the city’s ancient forbearers. Spread over three floors of the Victorian Gothic hall, along with a newly extended courtyard exhibition, Dublinia’s tours, events and daily exhibitions are an ideal way to connect with local history – while having fun!
Enter Viking life on the ground floor of Dublinia; try on Viking clothes, heft a sword at the wharf and experience life aboard a warship – or gain firsthand experience of becoming a Viking slave in the ominous Slave Market. Ground-floor visitors can venture down a noisy Viking-age street, hearing their language along the way in song and sagas, or visit a residentlocal in his Viking-era house.
Medieval Dublin life is re-created in minute detail on the second floor of the exhibition space. Visitors can experience the sights, sounds – and smells! – of life inside the Dublin city walls 700 years ago. Walk along cramped and busy quayside street along the Liffey, examine a wealthy merchant’s house and well-stocked kitchen, or visit the Medieval Fair for a few rounds of favorite local games!
Journey back to the present in Dublinia’s third floor History Hunters exhibits, where the experiences of the past come together with interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning – from uncovering the invaluable information locked inside tiny time capsules (bugs and dirt!) to up-close examinations of ancient maps, languages and even a genuine skeleton uncovered in Dublin!
Ideal for families aiming to mix fun and education, and best saved for one of Dublin’s many rainy days, Dublinia’s mix of historical detective work, street-level reproductions of ancient life and kid-friendly activities make this a perfect stop for history buffs with a sense of fun.
Posted on Mar 18, 2011 by Bridget Reilly
