Four Courts Marshalsea

Four Courts Marshalsea was a prison in Dublin with two courtyards, two chapels, several common halls, and even a ball court inside its stone walls. The building stood near the River Liffey on Marshalsea Lane, connecting Bridgefoot Street to what is now Robert Emmet Close.

The prison operated from 1580 to 1874 and moved multiple times across the city, starting on Werburgh Street before relocating to Molesworth Court and then its final site. This long history reflects how Dublin's needs changed over time.

The prison became a central part of Dublin's legal system, where inmates maintained social connections and organized gatherings during their confinement.

The building no longer stands, but its location can still be traced using Marshalsea Lane, which was named after the prison. Visitors can explore the surrounding area and see traces of other historical structures nearby.

After the prison was demolished, stones from its structure were reused to repair Dublin's City wall at Cook Street. In this way, part of the former building became part of the city's historic defenses.

GPS coordinates: 53.34410,-6.28275

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:03