President Of Ireland
Áras an Uachtaráin
Áras an Uachtaráin Tours
Áras an Uachtaráin (House of the President) is the official residence of the President of Ireland, located in the middle of Dublin’s Phoenix Park (one of Europe’s largest enclosed urban parks). The House was originally built in 1751 as a home for the park’s ranger. It boasts a large mansion with 95 rooms, showcasing Georgian and Victorian influences. It served as the Viceregal Lodge for British Viceroys before becoming the presidential home in 1938 and hosting state functions and visitors for tours of the iconic property.
Note that free tours are available to the public on Saturdays only. Visitors can see historic rooms, formal gardens with Victorian features, and significant art, including works by Jack B. Yeats and even a Caravaggio.
Five Things to Know about Áras an Uachtaráin
- Official Residence: It’s the official home of the President of Ireland, serving this role since 1938, though built much earlier.
- Built in 1751: Originally a modest house for a park ranger, it evolved into the elegant mansion now known as Áras an Uachtaráin, meaning “House of the President”.
- “Irish White House”: Its neoclassical style, white facade, and portico have led to comparisons with the U.S. White House, with some claiming it inspired the American design.
- Phoenix Park Location: It sits within Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest enclosed parks, offering extensive gardens, lakes, and walking paths.
- Public Access: The public can visit on free, guided Saturday tours, viewing state rooms and gardens, subject to official events.
“There will always be a light on in Áras an Uachtaráin for our exiles and our emigrants”