Dublin Castle Travel Notes

Dublin Castle, located in the heart of the Irish capital, is an architectural gem full of history. My tour began on a sunny morning, with the sun gently shining on the castle's gray stone exterior, outlining its unique blend of medieval and Victorian styles. The towering towers of the castle seem to be telling the vicissitudes of the past thousand years, attracting me to embark on this journey through time. Entering the castle, I first came to the State Apartments. Once the official residence of the British Governor-General, these rooms are now used for state receptions. The ornate decoration is breathtaking: the carved ceiling sparkles with gold leaf, the crystal chandeliers reflect brilliant light and shadows, and the classical portraits on the walls tell stories of past aristocrats. The tour guide gave a vivid introduction to St. Patrick's Hall, where the blue carpet complements the emblem of the Irish Order, symbolizing Ireland's cultural heritage. I stopped in front of a huge floor-to-ceiling window, overlooking the castle courtyard, imagining the grand ball scene of the past, and seemed to hear the music and laughter. Next, I visited the Chapel Royal, a small underground Gothic church full of surprises. The stained glass windows sparkle in the sunlight, and the delicate patterns on the carved wood screens are amazing. Standing in the center of the church, I felt a sense of quiet solemnity, as if time had stopped here. The tour guide mentioned that this was once a place of prayer for the royal family and nobles. I was in awe of the heavy sense of history. The gardens behind the castle are another highlight. The grass is green and the circular Celtic pattern in the center is uniquely designed and is said to commemorate Dublin’s ancient heritage. I strolled along the path, the breeze bringing the scent of flowers, and the castle towers in the distance contrasted sharply with the buildings of the modern city. This peaceful oasis allows me to temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse myself in the blend of nature and history. The Chester Beatty Library next to the garden houses precious ancient manuscripts. Although I didn't have time to visit it in depth, I could feel its cultural significance just from the appearance. Before the end of the tour, I took a break in the castle's cafe and ordered a cup of authentic Irish coffee. The rich aroma of coffee mixed with the warmth of whiskey left me with an endless aftertaste. Dublin Castle is not only a building, but also a witness to Ireland's history from war to independence. I left the castle with respect and attachment to this city, with the seed of visiting again planted in my heart. This trip made me deeply feel the soul and charm of Dublin.