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The Royal Hospital Kilmainham is one of the finest 17th-century buildings in Ireland, and since 1991 it has been home to the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) — Ireland's leading national institution for modern and contemporary art. This unique combination offers visitors both architectural heritage and cutting-edge culture in one magnificent location.
Built between 1680 and 1684 as a home for retired and disabled soldiers, the Royal Hospital predates the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, which it partially inspired. Commissioned by James Butler, 1st Duke of Ormonde, and designed by Sir William Robinson, it was the first classical building on a grand scale to be erected in Ireland.
The building is arranged around a large formal courtyard, with the ceremonial rooms in the north range. The magnificent Great Hall features a spectacular baroque ceiling and a portrait of King Charles II. The adjacent Chapel, separated by a beautiful carved oak screen, contains fine woodwork and a remarkable papier-mâché ceiling.
The hospital served its original purpose for almost 250 years, housing retired soldiers until 1927. After a period of use by government agencies, the building underwent extensive restoration in the 1980s.
Since opening in 1991, IMMA has established itself as one of Europe's most significant contemporary art museums. The collection includes over 3,500 works spanning from the 1940s to the present day, featuring artists such as Marina Abramović, Louise Bourgeois, Damien Hirst, and leading Irish artists including Dorothy Cross, Willie Doherty, and Kathy Prendergast.
IMMA presents a year-round program of changing exhibitions, featuring works from the collection and temporary exhibitions of Irish and international art. The museum is known for its ambitious commissioning program, resulting in major site-specific works created for the unique spaces of the Royal Hospital.
The gardens surrounding the Royal Hospital have been restored to their original 18th-century design, featuring symmetrical patterns of box hedges, gravel walks, and ornamental planting. The Master's Garden offers a peaceful retreat with seasonal flowers and mature trees. The grounds also feature contemporary outdoor sculptures and installations.
This is a place where history meets contemporary creativity. You can admire the baroque grandeur of the Great Hall, explore world-class modern art exhibitions, and stroll through beautiful historic gardens — all in one visit. Admission to IMMA is free, making this cultural experience accessible to everyone.
