The Book of Kells

The manuscript, which tells the story of the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke across four volumes, is on view in Dublin, Ireland at Trinity College's magnificent, 18th-century Old Library. To ensure conservation, two volumes are displayed at a time, allowing visitors to view four pages during any one visit.

Before viewing the book, guests pass through an exhibition that explains the significance and importance of the manuscript and relates the story of its near miraculous survival. A Book of Kells ticket includes access to the Trinity College Library's Long Room, where you'll find an original copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic and a medieval harp. Visitors can combine a tour here with a visit to nearby Dublin Castle.

• The Book of Kells is popular, so long lines can form. Buy a ticket with online booking in advance to avoid a wait.

• Explore independently or sign up for a guided early-access tour to skip the queue and see the manuscript without the crowds.

• The Old Library is wheelchair accessible.

Trinity College in Dublin is on the south side of the city center, at the northern end of Grafton Street. Take the Luas Red line to Abbey Street, the Luas Green Line to St. Stephen's Green, or the DART train to Pearse Station. Find the library entrance adjacent to Fellow's Square, opposite the Arts Building.

The Book of Kells site is open daily with varying hours by season; generally, it's open from morning to late afternoon or early evening, with shorter hours on Sunday. The book is a major attraction for travelers to Dublin, particularly during summer, so visit in the morning or later in the day to avoid the biggest crowds.

The manuscript's pages are filled with colorful, elaborate artwork done by three scribes known today as Hand A, Hand B, and Hand C. Some are adorned with swirling Celtic knots, while others are covered with drawings of animals such as lions, snakes, and peacocks, as well as mythical beasts and human figures. The single page of the medieval manuscript that is most famous is the Chi Rho, which is said to signify Christ.

Yes, the Book of Kells tour is worth it. In addition to giving access to the cultural treasure, admission also includes access to the Long Room Library at Trinity College Dublin—often called one of the world's most beautiful libraries. Learn about Irish history and culture on the tour.

The Book of Kells tour takes about 30 minutes. With the standard tour, visitors get access to both the Book of Kells and Long Room Library at Trinity College. Upgrades are available that include a guided tour of the campus. Prebook tickets for the Book of Kells to ensure entry.

Yes, a reservation is suggested to see the Book of Kells. Secure your spot by prebooking your Books of Kells ticket and admission to the Long Room Library at Trinity College. Entry is timed, and visitors who arrive without a reservation will be turned away if all slots are sold out.

Reservations for the Book of Kells include timed entry, so visitors can choose the date and time of their visit. Because entry is timed, crowding isn't a big problem. Still, the best time to visit the Book of Kells is often the quieter morning hours.

Yes, you can see the Books of Kells without a tour, but prebooking is suggested as day-of tickets may be sold out. A reservation provides admission to the exhibit, which visitors explore at their own pace. After viewing the manuscript, visit the Long Room Library at Trinity College.

No, it is not possible to touch the Book of Kells. This cultural relic is protected and kept behind glass at Trinity College. Admission includes access to both the Book of Kells exhibit and the Long Room Library. An option with a guided tour of Trinity College is also available.