If you are exploring Dublin, make sure to visit Kilmainham to experience the Irish Museum of Modern Art, also known as IMMA. As Ireland's leading national institution for modern and contemporary art, it provides a striking environment where historic architecture seamlessly meets creative expression. You will find the museum housed inside the magnificent 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham, which was founded in 1684 as a home for retired soldiers.
Modeled on Les Invalides in Paris and designed by Sir William Robinson, the building features long corridors surrounding a central courtyard, along with restored former stables that now host artists' studios. Inside, you will discover the Irish National Collection, which holds over 3,500 modern and contemporary works post-dating 1940. Expect to encounter creations from major international and Irish figures like Lucian Freud, Marina Abramović, Louise Bourgeois, Robert Rauschenberg, and Roy Lichtenstein, alongside pieces by emerging talent acquired through the Hennessy Art Fund.
Depending on when you visit, you might also experience the museum's annual Earth Rising Festival, an eco-focused event uniting artists, scientists, and thinkers to tackle planetary issues.
What to see at Irish Museum of Modern Art
- Explore modern art housed inside the historic 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham.
- View over 3,500 contemporary works from icons like Lucian Freud, Marina Abramović, and Roy Lichtenstein.
- Discover new acquisitions by Irish and Irish-based creators funded by the Hennessy Art Fund.
- See converted 17th-century stables now utilized for an artist-in-residence programme.
- Experience the annual Earth Rising Festival featuring art, ecology, and planetary discussions.
Visiting tips
Check out the museum's dedicated website beforehand to easily search and explore the fully catalogued collection online.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Irish Museum of Modern Art is easy to reach on Dublin’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Dublin Castle and Spire of Dublin. 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.