Custom House

The Custom House, a neoclassical jewel of Dublin

The Dublin audio-guided tour stops you before the Custom House, an impressive neoclassical building standing on the north bank of the Liffey. A symbol of the Georgian architecture of Dublin, it was designed by James Gandon, one of the most influential architects of his time.

A colossal construction project

The building gave rise to a colossal construction project, mobilising a large number of workers from the region, and was completed after about ten years of work, at the end of the eighteenth century. Originally intended to house the customs services, it testifies to the commercial prosperity of Dublin in the Georgian era. Severely damaged in 1921 during the struggle for independence, it was later restored.

What there is to see

The Custom House stands out for its long columned façade, its dome topped by a statue and its allegorical sculptures evoking trade and the rivers of Ireland. Reflected in the waters of the Liffey, it offers one of the finest views of Dublin. It is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, to be admired by day and illuminated in the evening.

Practical information

The Custom House is on Custom House Quay, on the north bank of the Liffey, in central Dublin. A government building, its interior opens to the public according to its own schedule, sometimes via a visitor centre; the façade can be contemplated freely from the quays.

Who designed the Custom House?

It was designed by the architect James Gandon, one of the most influential of his time, and completed at the end of the eighteenth century after about ten years of work.

What was the Custom House used for?

It was originally intended to house the customs services, testifying to the commercial prosperity of Dublin in the Georgian era.