Irish Museum of Modern Art, National art museum in Kilmainham, Ireland
The Irish Museum of Modern Art is housed in a former military hospital featuring classical architecture and spacious rooms now dedicated to displaying contemporary artworks. The exhibition spaces blend the building's formal layout with paintings, sculptures, videos, and photographs from Irish and international artists.
The building was constructed at the end of the 17th century as a hospital for wounded and retired soldiers and served that purpose for over two centuries. It later transformed into a museum dedicated to contemporary art, converting the historic spaces to display modern works and support working artists.
The name comes from the old hospital that once stood here, and the building itself becomes part of the art experience by hosting modern works within historic rooms. Visitors notice how contemporary pieces dialogue with the architectural setting around them.
The museum is open most days of the week with shorter hours on Sundays and closed on Mondays. Admission is free, and the main entrance is easily accessible with good parking nearby and public transport connections to the area.
The museum hosts an artist residency program where visitors can watch and interact with working artists in their studios. This creates a rare chance to see contemporary art being made in real time rather than only viewing finished pieces.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
