Meet in the quadrangle/courtyard to begin a tour of Government Buildings, home to the Department of the Taoiseach, the Council Chamber, the Department of Finance, and the Office of the Attorney General.

Constructed between 1904 and 1922, the building originally combined government offices with the Royal College of Science, whose centre block is flanked by statues of mathematician William Rowan Hamilton and scientist Robert Boyle. Designed by Sir Aston Webb (London) and Sir Thomas Manley (Cork), the building is a striking example of Edwardian Baroque, with a façade of rough granite and smooth Portland stone.

Following UCD’s departure in 1989, the Office of Public Works renovated the interior to house the Department of the Taoiseach. The tour includes the ceremonial staircase with its Evie Hone stained glass window, the Office of the Taoiseach, and the Cabinet Rooms, along with contemporary Irish artwork from the State Art Collection displayed throughout the building.

This building is owned by the State through the Office of Public Works (OPW).

Pre-Book Only

Wheelchair accessible
Accessible Toilets
Assistance Dogs welcome