Coinciding with the week that marks 230th anniversary of the original opening of the Custom House, the exhibition was created by award-winning designers whose previous work includes exhibitions at Killarney House and Dublin Castle, with contributions from leading Irish historians and academics, featuring a narrative journey revealing a story with many layers, of people, heritage and history, spanning over 200 years.
The exhibition flows and develops chronologically using each space to tell a chapter in the story, taking visitors from Dublin in the late 1700s through to the 21st century and giving them the unique and authentic experience of being inside the walls of one of the city's most iconic buildings.
The Custom House Visitor Centre will be a flagship visitor experience in the Docklands area of the city, featuring new and interactive exhibits telling the rich history of the building and showcasing its exceptional architecture. The project was funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with additional investment under Fáilte Ireland's Strategic Partnership with the OPW.
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The visitor centre, which occupies the entire central area of the building and is open to the public from Customs House Quay, uses interpretive methods to bring to life the story of the Custom House, which is the longest-serving purpose-built government building in Ireland.
The project has been developed by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in conjunction with the Office of Public Works (OPW) and in partnership with Fáilte Ireland.
Minister Darragh O'Brien was joined by Minister Patrick O'Donovan and Paul Kelly, CEO, Fáilte Ireland, to mark the official opening of the exhibition yesterday, 15 November.
Speaking at the launch, Minister O'Brien said: "The Custom House opened in 1791 and it took ten years to build. Initially the headquarters of the Commissioners of Custom and Excise, by the twentieth century, it was the headquarters of local government in Ireland. As a pillar of the ruling British administration, the building was targeted and burnt by the IRA on the 25th May, 1921; a key action of the Irish War of Independence. The government of the independent Irish state resolved to restore the building, completing these works by 1928.
"It is fitting that we pay tribute to the rich history of this fine building, and honour it with a modernised exhibition. I am delighted to open this beautifully refurbished Visitor Centre today for the people of Ireland, and for our Visitors from overseas."
Paul Kelly, Chief Executive at Fáilte Ireland added: "Investment in engaging, world-class attractions like the Custom House Visitor Centre adds to the diverse heritage tourism offering of Dublin. Fáilte Ireland is pleased to support the development of this fascinating attraction in one of Dublin's most iconic buildings. Bringing Dublin's story alive in such an authentic way will entice domestic and international visitors to visit Dublin, to explore the city and stay for longer for many years to come."
The Custom House Visitor Centre will be open to the public in November 2021.
