Standing tall on O'Connell Street, Dublin's main thoroughfare, the Spire of Dublin—also called the Millennium Spire or Monument of Light—is a striking 120-meter (390-foot) stainless steel landmark. Erected on the historical site of Nelson's Pillar, this pin-like structure was designed by architect Ian Ritchie as the centerpiece for the street's major regeneration project. As you walk through the granite plaza, you will notice how the monument's shot-peened surface dynamically reflects the surrounding light.
Look closely at the lowest 10 meters of the spire to see intricate patterns created by combining local rock core samples with a DNA double helix design. Weighing over 133 tonnes and narrowing from a three-meter base down to a thin 15-centimeter tip, it bridges modern art and technology. While locals affectionately know it by nicknames like "The Spike," visiting this landmark lets you experience a central symbol of Dublin's Celtic Tiger boom era.
Plan your walk around dusk when the monument comes alive: the base lights up, and the top 10 meters glow brightly as light-emitting diodes shine through nearly 12,000 tiny holes, offering you a memorable illuminated sight in the heart of the city.
What to see at Spire of Dublin
- 390-foot (120-meter) stainless steel pin-like monument
- Intricate base patterns inspired by rock core samples and DNA
- Top 10 meters illuminated at dusk by nearly 12,000 LEDs
- Located on O'Connell Street's pedestrian-friendly granite plaza
- Award-nominated design by architect Ian Ritchie
Visiting tips
Visit at dusk to see the base light up and thousands of LEDs illuminate the spire's tip.
How long: 15-30 minutes · Best time: Dusk
How to get there & what’s nearby
Spire of Dublin is easy to reach on Dublin’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Dublin Castle. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Dublin travel guide.
See the full Dublin travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.