National Gallery of IrelandThe National Gallery of Ireland is just what you might expect of an art institution in any country with a fine collection of Old Masters. But one in particular ‘The Taking of Christ’ by Carravaggio has an unusal story and exceptional provenance. Originally commissioned by the Roman Matei family in the 17th century it was thought to have been ‘lost’ for several hundred years until low and behold it turned up in the diningroom of a Jesuit Fathers home in Dublin, where it had been hanging over the mantlepiece unnoticed for some 60 years. A visiting restoration expert from the gallery recognized it for what it might be which completely surprised the fathers who had paid it little or no attention for all those years believing it to be a copy .....
Much debate followed of course regarding its authenticity but it was eventually traced to an Irish paediatrician Marie Lea Wilson who had donated it to the Jesuits after her husband was killed by the IRA, having bought it from William Hamilton Nisbet who had originally acquired it from the Matei family. Following expert restoration which revealed its true magnificence it is now on permanent loan to the gallery and the pride of the nation. Of course there are many other fine masterpieces in its collection as well as various exhibitions like the Turner watercolours which are only displayed annually in the month of January to avoid light damage. For information regarding events and opening times please consult their website below. Admission is FREE
10 other things to do and see in the area are...
1 Take a stroll in Merrion Square Park
2 Peer through the gates of Governments Buildings at Leinster House. For more information on things to do and see in Dublin please click here. For more information on the National Gallery please click here 
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