Kilmainham Gaol

Old Kilmainham Gaol, which opened in 1796, was the home of many of those involved in the Irish independence struggle for over 100 years. Today you can see the cells and communal areas that remained untouched by the countless executions.

Kilmainham Prison continues to hold a very special place in the memory of the Irish people because it was through the struggle of the brave patriots who were imprisoned and killed that Ireland gained its independence.

Life in Kilmainham Gaol

All types of prisoners were imprisoned at Kilmainham prison, including women, men and small children accused of robbery. The damp, cold and dark cells were only lit up and heated by a small candle.

When the Irish Potato Famine hit the country in 1845, thousands of people stole food to survive and this deteriorated the conditions in the jails since the cells were packed with people. Nevertheless, many preferred to stay in prison than being free and starve to death.

The Irish Free State closed the Gaol in 1924, previously releasing Éamon de Valera, who years later would become President of Ireland.

Guided tour

The guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol starts off at the prison’s chapel, where Joseph Plunkett married Grace Gifford shortly before being executed for participating in the Easter Rising.

Next, follow your guide to visit the cells, still gloomy and dank and continue to the patio where the prisoners were executed. Once the guided tour comes to an end, you can visit the museum that features various objects that once belonged to the prisoners.

Indispensable 

Kilmainham Gaol remains a historic building, a symbol of years of brutality and suffering. In our opinion, visiting the Gaol is an interesting way to explore Ireland’s history.

The entrance ticket includes a 1-hour guided tour.