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Dublin for lovers
Ireland has become one of the richest countries in the world, with Dublin's at its lively centre. Get there in about an hour and make it a romantic short break
Many cities have the trappings of romance - graceful architecture, stunning views, perfect little spots for a snog. While Dublin has them too, it is the site of a host of bittersweet love stories and unconsummated longing throughout history - the perfect place to celebrate the fact the two of you are actually together.
- Visit Saint Valentine himself
- Discover the site of one of the most celebrated tales of love
- Check into an old-fashioned Georgian townhouse
- Experience sky-high city views
- Address book and flight information
Visit St Valentine himself
In Roman times, Saint Valentine secretly married couples against the wishes of the Emperor Claudius II. In the 1800s Pope Gregory XVI passed on some remains of the famed saint to an Irish Carmelite named John Spratt because of Spratt's great oratory skills as a preacher. The remains arrived in Dublin in 1836 in a solemn procession to Whitefriar Street Church but were later put into storage as interest faded. During a renovation in the 1950s the relics were enshrined again at the church, where you can see them today. On the saint's feast day on 14 February the relic is placed on the high altar. At the 11am and 3:15pm masses there are special sermons and a short ceremony for a blessing of the rings for engaged couples.
Pay homage to Tristan and Isolde
The legend of Tristan and Isolde is a timeless tragic love story. Isolde, an Irish princess, was intended for an English king, who sent the knight Tristan to escort her to England. Isolde drank a love potion and she and Tristan fell deeply in love, although they could never be together. Later, as Tristan lay dying, Isolde rushed to his side, arriving only after he had breathed his last. She died of a broken heart.
Isolde's tower is in Dublin Castle on Exchange Street Lower in the middle of the city. While the remains of the tower are hidden behind an iron grill work about midway on the river side of the street, visitors can tour the state apartments, peruse exhibits at the Chester Beatty Library or stand in the middle of the Great Courtyard and show their love the way Tristan and Isolde never could (easy now - we mean with a kiss).
After visiting the Castle, take in some shopping nearby at the George's Street Arcade, which runs between South Great George's Street and Drury Street, with its bookstalls and bohemian fashions or go upscale at Brown Thomas, Dublin's answer to Harvey Nicks, on pedestrianised Grafton Street.
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Created: 08/02/2005 Updated: 09/08/2006
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