A Brief History of Dublin

Dublin was founded by the Vikings in the 9th Century as a base for trading. This settlement was known as Dubh Linn, Gaelic for Black Pool, in reference to a dark pool where the River Poddle joins the River Liffey, Dublin‘s main river. A second Gaelic settlement also emerged named Áth Cliath, meaning Ford of the Hurdles. In 1171 the Anglo-Norman’s invaded and Dublin was named the capital of the English Lordship in Ireland and remained under British rule until 1921. The site of the 1916 Easter Rising, the GPO (General Post Office) is still a popular attraction for visitors. …read more on Wikipedia

Berlin is a major centre of culture, politics, media, and science in Europe. The metropolis is home to world-renowned universities, research institutes, sporting events, orchestras, museums and personalities. The city’s historical legacy has made it a popular setting for international film productions.

Berlin’s urban landscape, which differs from most modern cities by having no definite centre, is the result of the division of the city by the Berlin Wall.

Over the past 20 years the eastern Berlin district of Mitte has stolen back the limelight from Charlottenburg, which was the main draw for tourists during partition. The city is recognised for its festivals, diverse architecture, nightlife, contemporary arts and a high quality of living. Berlin has evolved into a global focal point for young individuals and artists attracted by a liberal lifestyle and modern zeitgeist. …Find out more on Wikipedia

A Brief History of Berlin

First documented in the thirteenth century, Berlin was successively the capital of the Kingdom of Prussia (1701-1918), the German Empire (1871-1918), the Weimar Republic (1919-1933) and the Third Reich (1933-1945). After World War II, the city was divided; East Berlin became the capital of East Germany while West Berlin became a Western exclave, surrounded by the Berlin Wall from 1961-1989. During this period Bonn became the capital of West Germany. Following German reunification in 1990, the city regained its status as the capital of all Germany, amd now hosts 147 foreign embassies. …Find out more on Wikipedia

Recommendation: Trinity College

Founded in 1592, Trinity College, which was modelled on England’s Cambridge University, was Ireland’s first university. Famously, the Book of Kells, an ancient Celtic Manuscript is housed here…

IMMA is Ireland’s leading gallery for the collection and presentation of modern and contemporary art. The Museum presents a broad selection of art in a dynamic programme of exhibitions…

Take a trip through German cinematic history. The Deutsche Kinemathek Museum für Film und Fernsehen (German Cinematic Museum for Film and Television) features models of numerous old fashioned cameras including one developed as a camera-come-machine gun…

Recommendation – The Brazen Head:

Established in 1198AD, the Brazen Head is the oldest pub in Ireland. Enjoy live music and good food in a choice of the three cosy rooms, and a cobbled stone courtyard…