At 123 St Stephen’s Green, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland brings medical history and contemporary architecture together. Its historic façade still bears bullet marks linked to the 1916 Easter Rising, while portraits, trophies and Georgian details give the older building a formal character. Across from it on York Street, the 2017 wing by Henry J. Lyons has ten levels, five below ground. Check for public events, exhibitions or family activities before planning a visit, as this is an active college.
The historic college on St Stephen’s Green
The older RCSI building has portraits of surgeons and physicians associated with the college, along with trophies and Georgian architectural details. Its cornices and oak panelling give the interiors a formal character.
Bullet marks on the front façade connect the building to the 1916 Easter Rising. They are a visible trace of a turbulent period in Irish history.
The York Street wing
Designed by Henry J. Lyons, the contemporary wing opened in May 2017. It has ten levels, with five above ground and five below, and sits alongside the older college buildings on York Street.
The new building brings together a library, surgery facilities and an auditorium. Its 600-seat auditorium and sports facilities are among the spaces housed below ground. The contrast between the newer design and the historic college is part of what makes the site notable.
Planning a visit
RCSI is an active college, so access to its buildings can depend on permission or a scheduled event. Check official RCSI channels for exhibitions, public meetings and family activities before setting out. The Teddy Bear Hospital is one example of a public-facing event for children.
There are two canteens on the ground floor, but one is reserved for students. Confirm access and opening arrangements before planning to eat there. For courses and events in the new wing, check the venue details: the building extends across five underground levels.
Perguntas frequentes
Can the public visit RCSI?
Access to the college buildings may depend on permission or a scheduled event. Check RCSI’s official channels for exhibitions, public meetings and family activities.
What is notable about the RCSI façade?
The historic façade has bullet marks associated with the 1916 Easter Rising.
How many floors does the new RCSI wing have?
The York Street wing has ten levels, five above ground and five below.
Is there a canteen at RCSI?
There are two ground-floor canteens. One is for students, so check eligibility and opening arrangements before relying on either.
