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Four Courts

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Four Courts (Ireland)

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The Four Courts on Inns Quay in Dublin is the principal seat of the Irish judiciary, housing the Supreme Court, High Court, and Central Criminal Court. Constructed between 1786 and 1802, the building was designed by the acclaimed architect James Gandon, who also designed the Custom House. The neoclassical complex is famed for its massive central dome, which is supported by a Corinthian-style colonnade. In 1922, at the onset of the Irish Civil War, the Four Courts became a focal point of conflict when it was occupied by anti-treaty forces and subsequently shelled by the Free State Army. A massive explosion during the fighting destroyed the adjacent Public Record Office, resulting in the tragic loss of centuries of irreplaceable Irish historical documents. The building underwent extensive restoration and was eventually reopened in 1932, with the exterior largely returned to its original glory. Today, it stands as a testament to Ireland's legal foundations and a major architectural landmark. Its location along the Liffey makes it one of the most photographed and recognizable buildings in the Irish capital.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C666811141515141187
Rain mm86707061677680917610210697

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Four Courts is a working courthouse and is open to the public only during sitting days. Visitors must pass security screening and may not enter certain areas.
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Typical hours
Court sitting days are typically Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 17:00. The building is closed on weekends and public holidays; exact sitting dates are on the courts website.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the public lobby area but not in courtrooms. The neoclassical façade is a popular photo subject from the outside.
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Time needed
A visit to the public lobby takes about 15-20 minutes. If you want to observe a court hearing, allow 1-2 hours for the whole visit.
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Combine with
Four Courts is on the banks of the Liffey, just minutes from Ha'penny Bridge. Nearby Dublin Castle and St Patrick's Cathedral are also within easy walking distance.
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Getting there
The building is on Inns Quay in Dublin 7, easily reached by bus or Luas (stop Four Courts/Jervis). Parking is limited in the area, so public transport is recommended.
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Insider tip
Visit the public gallery of a courtroom for an insight into the Irish legal system. The staff are usually helpful and will show you the way.

Geography

Coordinates
53.34630, -6.27580

Facts

  • Construction began in 1786 and was completed by James Gandon in 1802.
  • The central dome of the building is 64 feet (19.5 meters) in diameter.
  • The 1922 explosion destroyed Irish census and legal records dating back to 1174.
  • The roof statues represent Moses, Justice, Mercy, Authority, and Wisdom.
  • The building was formally reopened after post-war restoration in 1932.
  • The 'Four Courts' name refers to the four separate courts that originally met here.

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Sights in the town Four Courts (10)

Father Matthew Bridge

Pedestrian and road bridge over the River Liffey in Dublin, connecting quays near Merchants Quay.

Saint Paul's Smithfield

Church building in the Smithfield area of Dublin, serves the Anglican congregation.

St Michan's Church

Anglican church on Bow Street, Dublin 7, Ireland, known for its vaulted crypts.

🕒 Mo-Fr 10:00-12:45,14:00-16:45; Sa 10:00-12:45; Su 10:00+

The Brazen Head

Oldest pub in Dublin, Ireland, located on Lower Bridge Street.

🕒 Mo-Th 10:30-23:30; Fr-Sa 10:30-00:30; Su 12:30-23:30

Old Jameson Distillery🏛 museum

Whiskey tourist attraction in Dublin, Ireland, former Jameson distillery site.

O'Donovan Rossa Bridge

Bridge in Ireland, spans the River Liffey in Dublin.

Church of the Immaculate Conception (Adam & Eve)

Church on Merchant's Quay, County Dublin, Republic of Ireland, Catholic parish.

Chimney Viewing Tower

Observation tower atop a former chimney in Dublin, offering city views.

Medieval City Wall and St. Audeon's Arch

Remains of Dublin's medieval city wall including St. Audoen's Arch.

Mellows Bridge

Bridge in Ireland, crossing the River Liffey in Dublin.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are the Four Courts?
It is Ireland's main court building and the seat of the Supreme Court and the High Court.
Can you visit the building inside?
The public can access the public areas and courtrooms when the court is in session.
Why is the building historically important?
It was severely damaged in 1922 during the Irish Civil War, resulting in the destruction of the national archives.
Is photography allowed inside?
No, photography and filming are strictly prohibited inside the court building.
Is there a security check at the entrance?
Yes, all visitors must pass through a security screening similar to an airport check.
Four Courts: where is it located?
Four Courts is located in Ireland.
Four Courts: what is there to see?
Highlights include Father Matthew Bridge, Saint Paul's Smithfield, St Michan's Church.
Four Courts: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Four Courts: why is it worth visiting?
The Four Courts on Inns Quay in Dublin is the principal seat of the Irish judiciary, housing the Supreme Court, High Court, and Central Criminal Court.
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