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Right in the heart of Dublin – in the prestigious Trinity College – is a jewel of Ireland’s cultural heritage: the Book of Kells.

It’s one of the most famous manuscripts in history, a UNESCO Memory of the World item, and is described by the 11th century Annals of Ulster as “the most precious object in the Western world”.

This exquisitely illuminated manuscript contains the four Gospels of the New Testament in Latin and dates back to around 800AD. Almost every one of its 680 pages features elaborate imagery of mythical creatures, wild and domestic animals, Christian iconography and Celtic symbols.

A manuscript as impressive as the Book of Kells needs a library to match its majesty – and Trinity’s Old Library is the perfect setting.

The magnificent building was constructed in the 18th century, and houses a vast collection that includes everything from illuminated medieval manuscripts and early printed books to correspondence from playwright and Nobel Laureate Samuel Beckett and pieces of art history.

The main chamber of the Old Library is the magnificent Long Room. This striking 65 metre hall – with a beautiful wooden barrel vaulted ceiling, dark oak beams, and marble busts – is a sight that will linger long in the memory (if you haven’t seen it on Instagram already).

The library is currently undergoing a major redevelopment and most of the books have been removed from the shelves of the Long Room for conservation. However, visitors won’t be disappointed as this unique space is currently home to the stunning Gaia installation – a spectacular illuminated sculpture of Earth by Luke Jerram.