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Marsh's Library vs Kilmainham Gaol Museum

Marsh's Library and Kilmainham Gaol are both praised by professionals. Overall, Kilmainham Gaol scores slightly higher than Marsh's Library. Kilmainham Gaol ranks #10 in Dublin with praise from 7 reviews such as Michelin Guide, Lonely Planet and Time Out.

Marsh's Library
Marsh's Library
8 / 10
St Patrick's Close, Dublin
From $0 /night
Fodor's Fodor's
"When Ireland's first public library was founded and endowed in 1701 by Narcissus Marsh, the Archbishop of Dublin, it was made open to "All Graduates and Gentlemen"." Full review
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"This magnificently preserved scholars' library, virtually unchanged in three centuries, is one of Dublin's most beautiful open secrets, and an absolute highlight of any visit." Full review
Time Out Time Out
"This is the oldest public library in Ireland (and the only 18th-century building still used for its original purpose)." Full review
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
2 Stars
"The first public library in Ireland was built in 1701 by archbishop Narcissus Marsh. There are 25 000 volumes here." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler Condé Nast Traveler
"Though you can’t browse the books themselves, selected tomes are displayed according to changing themes. " Full review
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Kilmainham Gaol Museum
Kilmainham Gaol Museum
9 / 10
Inchicore Road, Kilmainham, Dublin 8
From $0 /night
Fodor's Fodor's
"Leaders of many failed Irish rebellions spent their last days in this grim, forbidding structure, and it holds a special place in the myth and memory of the country." Full review
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"If you have any desire to understand Irish history – especially the juicy bits about resistance to English rule – then a visit to this former prison is an absolute must." Full review
Time Out Time Out
"This remains the best-known Irish lock-up and one of the most fascinating buildings in the country." Full review
Let's Go Let's Go
"Indeed, Kilmainham Gaol is most famous for having housed many famous Irish revolutionaries—many of the central figures in the 1916 Easter Rising were taken here and killed. " Full review
Atlas Obscura Atlas Obscura
"One of Ireland's most infamous prisons for rebels including men, women and children. " Full review
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