Traveler DescriptionSituated in the heart of Ireland's capital city, the Chester Beatty Library is an art museum and library which houses the great collection of manuscripts, miniature paintings, prints, drawings, rare books and some decorative arts assembled by Sir Alfred Chester Beatty (1875-1968). The Library's exhibitions open a window on the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world. Its rich collection from countries across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe offers visitors a visual feast. Chester Beatty Library was named Irish Museum of the year in 2000 and was awarded the title European Museum of the Year in 2002.
Address: Clock Tower Building
Phone: 353 1 407 0750
http://www.cbl.ieTraveler ReviewsFelt like a secret!
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Sep 22, 2008
I have never seen anything like this in any of the big cities in the States. This man's collection of Eastern art is trememdous. We learned so much by spending time here.
wonderful
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Jun 25, 2007
Don't miss this museum. It's so nice. The exhibits and lectures are unique, and the setting is phenominal. The garden for Dublin Castle is right next door. Beautiful. p.s. the cafeteria at Chester Beatty is excellent.
a great secret in a lovely setting
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Aug 4, 2005If you are coming to Dublin and are even vaguely interested in museums, definitely make your way to this place. It's accessible through the entrance to Dublin Castle on Dame Street. If you continue past the courtyard of the Castle, round the back of the old Tower you will see the serene and pleasant gardens of Dublin Castle. Beside this hideaway is the Chester Beatty Library. He was an American entrepreneur and philanthropist and he donated a large part of his estate, and amazing collections to the people of Ireland. There are some fascinating odds and ends in this excellent museum. The story of his life is displayed on panels around the museum, and you get a good idea of how interesting this man's life was. It's a lovely way to pass some time in Dublin. Check out the roof garden above the library. If it's a sunny day, get yourself a coffee and chill out in this lovely little spot, frequently overlooked by locals and tourists alike.
Dublin's best museum
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Aug 2, 2005The Chester Beatty Library, situated on the grounds of Dublin Castle, is by far the best museum in the capital. It houses and displays a staggering amount of beautifully illustrated books and manuscripts, some fragments of biblical text dating back to the 2nd Century. Perhaps what's most special about the museum is the interweaving and parity of esteem given to all religious denominations. Beatty was an avid collector of Far Eastern, Middle Eastern and European texts and there are religious and secular writings related to various faiths, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism. The decorated Koran that are shown are wonderful and the section relating to the five pillars of Islam is very educational, particularly in the current political climate. The museum is perhaps found lacking in the area of guides or guided tours but I found wandering and discovering each section in no particular order quite satisfying. The exhibition is dominated by the written word and while there are interesting artefacts on display they play second fiddle. I find ancient texts and manuscripts to be fascinating. If you know you won't be so enthused then you probably shouldn't go. The atmosphere is quiet, calm and respectful. While I was there a group of young European students who were talking and laughing loudly were told they'd have to remain quiet or leave. I can think of no display that gives such insight into the history and development of people's religious beliefs, while managing to pay due regard to each faith's dignity and sanctity. I'm not particularly religious.
