Four Courts (The)

Description:

• Home to the Irish law courts since 1796, this fine 18th-century building overlooks the north bank of the Liffey on Dublin's west side. With a sprawling 132m (433-ft.) facade, it was designed by James Gandon (who also designed the Custom House) and is distinguished by its graceful Corinthian columns, massive dome (192m/630 ft. in diameter), and exterior statues of Justice, Mercy, Wisdom, and Moses (sculpted by Edward Smyth). The building was at the center of the fighting during the civil war of 1922 and was badly damaged in the battle, but it was later artfully restored. The public is admitted only when court is in session.

• © Frommer's 2013