James Joyce Centre

Since James Joyce was one of Ireland’s most beloved novelists and poets, it only makes sense that an entire center is dedicated to his life and work. Though Joyce never lived in this Georgian-era house not far from Parnell Square, it’s very similar to the one where he was raised, and was actually the home of Denis Maginni—the dance instructor who is prominently mentioned in Joyce’s famous Ulysses. The center contains pieces of Joyce’s furniture that were moved from his studio in Paris, and also has the door of 7 Eccles Street—the home of Leopold and Molly Bloom that also appears in Ulysses. Though the number of period artifacts is thin, Joyce fans will enjoy the interactive displays that include documentaries and computer programs explaining his life and works. In addition to touring the center itself, the James Joyce Centre also hosts walking tours around the streets of Dublin. These tours follow a select theme relating to Joyce’s work—one of those being “The Dubliners” tour that begins at the center, ends at Trinity College, and explores how Dublin in the early 20th century influenced his storylines and characters.

Practical Info

The James Joyce Centre is open from 10am-5pm on Tuesday-Saturday, and from 12pm-5pm on Sunday. In the high season from April-September, the center is also open on Monday. Admission is approximately $5.75 for adults and $4 for children, and is only a short walk from the north end of O’Connell Street and access to most city bus lines.