Limerick’s downtown area is dominated by the walls of King John’s Castle, which gives the town its medieval identity. Yet it was the Vikings who first settled Limerick on the banks of the River Shannon in 812. With a population of over 100,000, Limerick dominates the south-west of the country, with many students and jobs in new technologies.

01. King John’s Castle

Built on the foundations of a Viking fort, this medieval fortress was erected when Limerick was conquered by the Anglo-Normans in 1195. Today, visitors can discover Ireland’s history of battles and shifts in power. From the top of the ramparts, panoramic views take in the cityscape and the River Shannon.

02. Courthouse

More than a symbol of Justice, the Courthouse represents the weight of the Law that the inhabitants must respect. When it was built in 1814, all cases were dealt with here; since then, criminal proceedings have had their own premises. Its beautiful classical facade also contributes to the elegance of the town’s administrative centre, close to the cathedral and city hall.

03. Saint Mary’s Cathedral

In the centre of the old town, the Vikings had also erected official buildings, a kind of parliament and then the king’s palace. With the Anglo-Normans, a cathedral was quickly erected in the 12th century, which was later converted from Catholic to Protestant worship. A fee is charged to visit the cathedral, where a sense of history and spirituality can be felt in the calm semi-darkness.

04. City Hall

The municipal authorities moved into these new premises in 1990, replacing an old prison, some of the architectural features of which have been retained. On the river side, a pleasant promenade has been laid out, embellished with sculptures. It has become the focal point of local life, bringing together administrations serving the public.

05. Widows Alms Houses

This row of quaint almshouses was built in the mid-19th century to help a group of 20 needy widows. It wasn’t until the 1960s that modern comforts were installed, electricity and running water were long missing. Located close to the castle, these now well-kept houses are highly photogenic.

06. Milk Market

In the past, several specialized markets existed throughout the town, with grain, pork, potatoes and butter all having their own premises. The one dedicated to milk is the only one to survive, still within its original walls. Its vocation has evolved, however, as it now sells quality food products, often locally produced, under its broad canopy.

07. Hunt Museum

The former Customs House, built in 1765, has been converted to house the Hunt family art collection. Opened in 1997, the museum contains works from antiquity to the 20th century, with a strong emphasis on Irish art. This city-centre museum brings a new cultural dimension to Limerick.

08. City Gallery of Art

The City Gallery of Art was originally built in 1906 as a public library, with grants from the American industrialist Andrew Carnegie, a philanthropist who financed numerous libraries around the world. The premises were later enlarged and organized to house the municipality’s collection of Irish art.

09. People’s Park

Planned in 1835 as the centerpiece of a development of luxury residences, the park was initially reserved for them. Now it’s open to all, with the municipality leasing the land for five centuries at a symbolic rent. Numerous species of trees have become imposing, providing shade on sunny days. This is the city’s largest park.

10. St Saviour’s Catholic Church

Close to People’s Park, a little way from the city centre, the Catholic Church was built by the Dominicans in 1815, its appearance being improved in 1860. This added an elegant monument to the neighborhood, closing the street perspective from the park entrance. Its neo-Gothic style also resonates with the clock on the neighboring square.