Introduction
Where is Dublin?
Dublin is situated on the east coast of Ireland. Co. Wicklow and the Wicklow Mountains are to the south and Co. Meath is to the north. The river Liffey flows through the centre of Dublin city.
Names of Dublin
There are two Irish names for Dublin - Baile Atha Cliath and Dubh Linn.
Baile Átha Cliath means the "Town at the Ford of the Hurdles". The name comes from an ancient ford over the river Liffey.
Dubh Linn means "Dark Pool" and comes from the time the Vikings settled near a dark pool in the River Liffey.
Dublin's Coat of Arms
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The coat of arms was granted officially in 1607.
The three castles were the three towers of Dublin castle. The flames coming out of the castles mean that the citizens of Dublin are ready to defend their city. The three castles are on a shield carried by two women.
The woman on the left is holding a sword and an olive branch. She represents law.
The woman on the right is carrying a scales and an olive branch. She represents justice.
At their feet are flowers representing hope and joy.
The coat of arms can be seen today on buildings, on street furniture, on the Lord Mayor's house called the Mansion House in Dawson St., and on Dublin Corporation trucks.
The use of the coat of arms is a sign of respect for the past and of hope for the future of Dublin.
Dublin Through the Years
Since the Vikings founded Dublin in 741 AD it has been changing. It has been changing and growing for thousands of years. Dublin is a very busy, crowded place now with 1.5 million people living in the city and suburbs.