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Book Of Kells

Book Of Kells
Written around the year 800 AD by Columban monks, this highly decorative vellum (prepared calfskin) copy of the four gospels in a Latin text is regarded as the finest surviving example of Irish Celtic art. Richly illustrated with many-hued letters and pictorials incorporating animals, humans and Biblical scenes, this exquisite manuscript reveals a seemingly inexhaustible wealth of supremely detailed ornamentation upon each close inspection. The Book's name comes from the Abbey of Kells in Kells, County Meath, where it was reputed to have been (at least partly) written, though its exact origins remain unclear. The Book remained there until the 1650s when it was moved to Dublin for safekeeping and was presented to Trinity College Dublin's (TCD) Library in 1661. Over the centuries it has endured damage, part-theft and various attempts at rebinding - good and bad. Originally a single volume, for conservation reasons it has been rebound into four volumes, two of which are normally on display showing examples of script and illustration. The volumes on display are changed at regular intervals. 

Visits are self guided, with displays telling the history of the Book of Kells and other historic manuscripts that put the Book into historical perspective, and reservations are not taken. Everyone has to queue so allow an extra half hour in the extremely busy summer months. Opening hours and access vary during public holidays. 

See also Trinity College Dublin and The Long Room.

Adult €9, Conc. €8, 2+4 €18 , U12 Free.

Book Of Kells-Dublin-What to See-Trinity College Dublin
Book Of Kells-Dublin-What to See-Trinity College Dublin
Book Of Kells-Dublin-What to See-Trinity College Dublin

Book Of Kells comments Add Yours

  • Johannah - Back in scoohl I'm doing so much learning. 20 July 2011
    Back in scoohl I'm doing so much learning.
  • thomas saunders, - murwillumbah, 24 May 2010
    simply heart trobbingly beautyfull,,,, GOD LOVES IRELAND,,, so do I,,,,every thing every one every place, breath tacken in warmt,and joy,to be locked up in the heart for ever,and swollow the key,,,, tommy,
  • Editor 18 March 2009
    Seniors and students are now classed 'Conc.' (ie concession) and cost €8 from Jan 2009.
  • Editor - Belfast 13 January 2009
    The cost for pensioner is depicted as 'Seniors' ie €7. Double check their website to confirm.
  • Sinead - Belfast 15 December 2008
    Hi there- please contact them directly before making a trip so there will not be any surprises or contact us and we will be happy to find out for you! Good luck
  • debbie - ormskirk 17 August 2008
    there is no clear statement for the cost of a pensioner

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View in maps.inyourpocket.com

Metro City centre location

Open:

Mon-Sat 09:30 - 17:00, Sun: 09:30 - 16:30 (May - Sept), 12:00 - 16:30 (Oct - Apr)

Address:

Trinity College Library, College Green, D2

Phone:

(+353) (0)1 896 2320

Metro station:

Luas St Stephen's Green

www:

http://www.tcd.ie/Library/bookofkells/book-of-kells/
bookofkells@tcd.ie