Join Ciarán Masterson for an insightful tour of Glasnevin Cemetery, a site that has stood at the very heart of key moments in modern Irish history. Many of the most iconic figures from that history are buried here—including Daniel O’Connell, Michael Collins, Éamon de Valera, and Countess Markievicz. Yet, Glasnevin is also the final resting place of almost 1.5 million ordinary people. Behind every name, and beneath every headstone, lies the story of a life lived, capturing a unique individual’s experiences, joys, and sorrows.

Founded in 1832 as part of the garden cemetery movement, the grounds beautifully reflect the vision of architect Patrick Byrne. This tour focuses closely on this unique layout, highlighting the cemetery’s striking monuments and the talented artists who sculpted them. You will also discover the impressive mortuary chapel designed by J.J. McCarthy, widely regarded as Ireland’s pre-eminent architect of Catholic churches. A major highlight of the experience is the iconic O’Connell Tower, also designed by Patrick Byrne. Measuring an impressive 55 metres, it remains one of the highest structures in Dublin. This tour offers a unique and polished insight into the architecture, construction, and history of one of Dublin’s most visited heritage sites.

These tours are pre-book only and tours are suitable for ages 8+

Some of the tour is wheelchair accessible but there are some narrow pathways and uneven surfaces throughout and the O’Connell Crypt portion requires participants to navigate a set of narrow steps.

There are two cemetery carparks. The main carpark is 100m from the visitor centre and the St. Paul’s Section carpark is across the road 200m from the visitor centre. Both carparks cost €2, payable upon exit.