Dublin in 3 Facts

Just like a film you watch many times before finally understanding it, Dublin reveals its history little by little. There are some things you’re already aware of before coming here, like its countless pubs and its beer empire. But, there are so many other details you’ll discover along the way—or even right now. Ready? Let’s get started! First, it is said that the famous O’Connell Bridge is as long as it is wide, making it a rarity in Dublin and across Europe. Luckily for you, our itinerary will take you right across it. Another surprising fact: did you know that the very first lion used by the American film company Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer was a lion from Dublin Zoo, named "Slats"? If the name doesn’t ring a bell, we’re pretty sure you’ve seen his face before—roaring proudly inside a golden circle at the beginning of many famous movies. And finally, for a change in subject, you might be surprised to learn that Queen Elizabeth II of England waited until 2011 to make her first-ever state visit to Ireland—in Dublin, more precisely. This late visit can be explained by the long history of tensions between the two nations.