- One of the foremost European collections of Oriental art and books.
- Presentation of treasures allows for maximum effect combined with important background information.
- Fascinating glimpse into world cultures and religions.
- Roof garden and restaurant make a visit an experience for all senses.
- Can be hard to find, apparently.
- The collections were brought together by Alfred Chester Beatty (1875-1968), a New Yorker making his fortune through mining.
- In 1950 Chester Beatty retired to Ireland, bringing his collection with him and building a library to house it.
- Upon his death, Chester Beatty bequeathed his collection to the public.
- The collection moved to the new Chester Beatty Library in Dublin Castle in 1999.
- Chester Beatty was made Ireland's first honorary citizen in 1957.
The Chester Beatty Library is not easy to find - despite being centrally located in the grounds of Dublin Castle and signposted many visitors have to ask for directions. The layout of the castle is a bit confusing, I admit. But the search for the entrance, facing Dubh Linn Gardens is worth the effort.
The library itself is best described as a very eclectic collection highlighting artistic treasures of world cultures and religions. Started as a purely private collection it now is a national treasure - which means that entry is free.
You enter through a very modern hall, connecting the 18th century Clock Tower Building and a new, purpose-built gallery building. The upper floors house the public galleries. The Artistic Traditions Gallery contains (to name but the highlights) a superb collection of Chinese jade books, Japanese inro (boxes for seals or medicines), Mughal miniatures and illuminated Persian manuscripts. The second gallery is devoted to sacred traditions. The great religions of the world are explored through books and manuscripts - Judaic, Christian Islamic, Buddhist and Hindu. Visitors will find many interesting exhibits, even some of the earliest gospels. But pride of place must belong to the splendid illuminated copies of the Qur'an.
Finish off your visit with a few moments of reflection in the roof-top Zen garden, then head off for refreshments in the Silk Road Café - fittingly serving Oriental food.
The Chester Beatty Library may not be an essential item on a visit to Dublin - but a visit should be high priority for anybody interested in world cultures and religions.
