EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum: Dublin’s Award-Winning Heritage Attraction

The Irish Emigration Museum is also known as EPIC Dublin, one of the best museums in Ireland to Visit. At the 26th annual ‘World Travel Awards’, EPIC Museum Dublin was voted as ‘Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction’.

We can see why, as the Irish Emigration Museum offers a fascinating insight into Ireland’s past that goes far beyond the typical stereotypes. On a visit to this EPIC museum, you’ll discover what it truly means to be Irish through the remarkable stories of Irish emigrants. Some of these Irish emigrants became successful scientists, artists, poets, and politicians worldwide.

The Irish Emigration Museum offers a unique opportunity to learn why 10 million people chose to leave Ireland and their impact on the world around them.

Keep reading to find out more about one of Dublin’s and Ireland’s best museums.

About the EPIC Museum

This interactive museum takes you on an exciting journey through an essential part of Ireland’s history. It is a modern Irish museum in the CHQ Building in Dublin’s famous Docklands, the world’s only fully digital museum. Visitors can explore unique interactive video galleries and listen to remastered audio dating back to 100 years ago, helping to powerfully bring Irish history to life in a compelling way that captivates visitors at the museum.

The Epic Museum Dublin offers 1,500 years of Irish history to enjoy and learn about. It’s one of Ireland’s top-rated and visited attractions for anyone interested in learning about the Irish people and their unique culture, heritage, and history.

A place for you to relive some of Ireland’s tremendous achievements through literature, politics, business, music and more.

The EPIC museum is also home to the Irish Family History Centre, where visitors can unravel their Irish roots through a team of genealogy experts. This is great for those interested in or just curious about whether they have Irish heritage in their blood; after all, doesn’t everyone wish to be Irish?

The Museum Experience

The Irish Emigration Museum is divided into twenty thematic galleries, each exploring different aspects of the Irish emigration experience. The museum’s layout is designed to take visitors on a chronological journey, beginning with the early waves of emigration and culminating in the modern diaspora. Multimedia displays, interactive touchscreens, and immersive installations ensure that the story of Irish emigration is brought to life dynamically and engagingly.

The Journey Begins

Upon entering the Irish Emigration Museum, visitors are greeted by a striking sculpture of a ship, symbolising the journeys undertaken by Irish emigrants. This sets the tone for the immersive experience that follows. The first galleries focus on the early history of Irish emigration, exploring the social, economic, and political factors that drove people to leave their homeland.

The Great Famine

One of the most poignant sections of the museum is dedicated to the Great Famine. Through personal testimonies, archival photographs, and interactive exhibits, visitors gain a deep understanding of the suffering endured by the Irish people during this dark period. The museum also highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of those who survived and forged new lives abroad.

Building New Lives

Subsequent galleries explore the experiences of Irish emigrants in their new homes. Irish emigrants played a significant role in developing many countries, from the construction of the railroads in America to the gold rushes in Australia. The museum showcases the diverse contributions of the Irish diaspora, from politics and business to arts and culture.

Famous Irish Figures

EPIC celebrates the achievements of notable Irish emigrants who have significantly impacted the world stage. Visitors can learn about figures such as John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, and Mary Robinson, the first female President of Ireland and a prominent human rights advocate. The museum also highlights the contributions of Irish artists, writers, and musicians, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and U2.

The Irish in Popular Culture

The influence of the Irish diaspora extends to popular culture, and EPIC delves into this fascinating aspect of Irish identity. The museum features exhibits on Irish music, dance, and literature, as well as the portrayal of the Irish in film and television. Visitors can explore the global impact of Irish culture, from traditional folk music to the worldwide phenomenon of Riverdance.

The Modern Diaspora

The final galleries of EPIC examine the contemporary Irish diaspora. Visitors can learn about the experiences of recent immigrants, the challenges they face, and how they maintain their connection to Ireland. The museum also explores the phenomenon of reverse migration, with many Irish people returning to their homeland in recent years.

Interactive and Educational Features

The Irish Emigration Museum is renowned for its interactive and educational features, which make the museum experience informative and engaging. Cutting-edge technology allows visitors to immerse themselves in the stories of Irish emigrants and gain a deeper understanding of their experiences.

Touchscreens and Interactive Displays

The museum’s touchscreens and interactive displays provide visitors with information about Irish immigration. These features allow visitors to delve deeper into specific topics, such as the history of the Irish in a particular country or the contributions of a notable Irish figure. The interactive nature of the exhibits ensures that visitors of all ages can engage with the content meaningfully.

Personal Stories

One of EPIC’s most powerful aspects is its focus on personal stories. The museum features testimonies from Irish emigrants, both historical and contemporary, providing a human perspective on the emigration experience. These stories are presented through various media, including audio recordings, video interviews, and written accounts.

Family History and Genealogy

The Irish Emigration Museum also offers resources for visitors interested in exploring their Irish heritage. The museum’s genealogy centre, operated in partnership with the Irish Family History Centre, provides access to a wealth of historical records and expert guidance on tracing Irish ancestry. This service is particularly popular with members of the Irish diaspora seeking to connect with their roots.

Educational Programmes

In addition to its exhibits, The Irish Emigration Museum offers a range of educational programmes for schools and other groups. These programmes complement the national curriculum and provide students with an engaging and interactive way to learn about Irish history and culture. The museum also hosts workshops, lectures, and events that explore various aspects of the Irish emigration experience.

The Global Irish Community

EPIC’s celebration of the Irish diaspora extends beyond the museum itself. The museum is committed to fostering community among the global Irish population and promoting the continued exchange of ideas and culture.

The EPIC Diaspora Network

The EPIC Diaspora Network is an initiative that aims to connect members of the Irish diaspora around the world. Through a series of events, workshops, and online resources, the network provides a platform for Irish people and those of Irish descent to share their experiences, celebrate their heritage, and support one another. The network also aims to strengthen the relationship between Ireland and its global diaspora, promoting collaboration and mutual understanding.

Digital Outreach

EPIC has developed a robust online presence, recognising the importance of digital engagement. The museum’s website features many resources, including virtual tours, educational materials, and information on Irish emigration. Social media platforms are used to share stories, promote events, and engage with the global Irish community. This digital outreach ensures that EPIC’s message reaches a broad audience, regardless of geographical location.

Collaboration with Other Institutions

EPIC collaborates with various institutions and organisations to promote the study and celebration of Irish emigration. Partnerships with universities, cultural institutions, and diaspora organisations enable the museum to support research, host events, and develop new programmes. These collaborations help ensure that the story of the Irish diaspora continues to be explored and celebrated.

Visitor Experience

EPIC has been praised for its visitor-friendly design and the high quality of its exhibits. The museum’s layout and interactive features are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and ages, making it an ideal destination for families, school groups, and individual visitors alike.

Accessibility

The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, with ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets throughout the building. The interactive nature of the exhibits also ensures that visitors with a range of needs and abilities can engage with the content. Audio guides and printed materials are available in multiple languages, enhancing the museum’s accessibility.

Visitor Amenities

EPIC offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. The museum includes a gift shop where visitors can purchase various Irish-themed souvenirs, books, and gifts. The on-site café provides a selection of refreshments, including traditional Irish fare, making it a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the museum experience.

Guided Tours

For visitors seeking a more in-depth experience, guided tours of EPIC are available. Led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, these tours provide additional insights into the exhibits and the stories they tell. Group tours can be tailored to specific interests or themes, making them a popular choice for school and special interest groups.

The Award-Winning Irish Emigration Museum

As mentioned above, the EPIC Museum Dublin was awarded the prestigious ‘Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction’ at one of the most recognised and respective travel awards. The attraction beat stiff competition, including Buckingham Palace in London and the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The World Travel Awards are a renowned industry, and the awards are only given to the best of the business. Other attractions which have been recipients of the award include the famous Guinness Storehouse and the iconic London Eye.

This is an incredible achievement for the Irish museum, which only opened its doors three years ago in the heart of Dublin by former President Mary Robinson. The attraction helps to recognise and highlight the importance of the Irish diaspora and the monumental impact they have made worldwide.

Epic Founder Neville Isdell said, “It is truly an honour to receive an award of this magnitude; we are delighted to be named Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction for 2019.”

This year alone, the Epic Museum is expected to welcome over 300,000 visitors through its door. The attraction’s popularity has quickly grown, offering a great day in Dublin.

Check out the video below to show  you what is on offer inside the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum:

One Attraction You Need to Experience in Dublin

It’s a must-visit if you’re planning a trip to Dublin. Dublin is a brilliant celebration of Irish people around the globe. The Irish Emigration Museum offers a fantastic perspective of the struggles and triumphs of the Irish people over the centuries.

Make sure you also stop at the EPIC Museum gift shop to take home a unique Irish gift to cherish forever and remind you of your trip.

“This is one of the best museums I’ve visited . . . in the world. And I’ve been to many. The interactivity level is high; in almost every room (exhibit) there was something interactive to do.”  TripAdvisor Customer

The Irish Emigration Museum is next to another popular tourist attraction, the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship. The Jeanie Johnston is a replica of a famous tall ship that brought Irish people to America, helping to continue the incredible stories of Irish emigration.

Opening Times and Admission to the EPIC Museum

The EPIC Museum Dublin is open all year, excluding the 24-26 December.

• Adult Ticket (18-64): €23.00
• Teenager (Age 13-17):
• Children’s Ticket (6-12): €15.50
• Child (Under five years old): FREE
• Student: €20.50
• Family Ticket(Two adults and two children):€37.00
• Dublin Pass: FREE

Conclusion

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum stands as a beacon of Irish heritage, celebrating the Irish diaspora’s enduring spirit and global impact. Through its innovative use of technology and its focus on personal stories, the museum provides a powerful and engaging exploration of the Irish emigration experience. Whether you have Irish roots or are interested in history and culture, visiting EPIC is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Ireland’s global story. As it continues to evolve and expand its reach, EPIC remains a vital and inspiring tribute to the millions of Irish people who have left their homeland and the rich legacy they have created worldwide.

Have you ever visited the EPIC Museum Dublin? We would love to hear about your experience and what you enjoy most.

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