Dublin Civic Museum, Dublin

A small museum housed in what was formerly the City Assembly House, the Civic is mainly devoted to temporary exhibitions. However, its long-term exhibitions on Ireland's history and culture begin in the Viking period and continue right through to this century. Items on display include photographs, paintings and other artefacts—including the head of Nelson's statue which once stood on a great pillar on O'Connell Street but which was blown up by the IRA. In all, this is a fascinating (if a little old-fashioned) glimpse at the city's past.