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European Museum of the Year 2002
Irish Museum of the Year 2000
Situated in the heart of the city centre, the Chester Beatty Library is an art museum and library which houses the great collection of manuscripts, miniature paintings, prints, drawings, rare books and some decorative arts assembled by Sir Alfred Chester Beatty (1875-1968). His collection is now housed in Dublin Castle in a restored 18th century building with a modern purpose-built block attached. The Library was named Irish Museum of the Year in 2000 and was recently awarded the title European Museum of the Year 2002, a coveted international accolade in the museum world.
The Library's exhibitions open a window on the artistic treasures of the great cultures and religions of the world. The rich collection from countries across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe offers visitors a visual feast.
Egyptian papyrus texts, beautifully illuminated copies of the Qur'an, the Bible, European medieval and renaissance manuscripts are among the highlights of the collection. Turkish and Persian miniatures and striking Buddhist paintings are also on display, as are Chinese dragon robes and Japanese woodblock prints. In its diversity, the collection captures much of the richness of human creative expression from about 2700 BC to the present day.
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri 10am-5pm (May to September)
Tues-Fri 10am-5pm (October-April)
Saturdays 11am-5pm (all year)
Sundays 1pm-5pm (all year)
Closed Public Holiday Mondays, Good Friday, 24th, 25th and 26th December, 1st Jan
Free public tours are available on Wednesdays at 1pm and on Sundays at 3pm and 4pm. Other times by prior arrangement.
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