Royal Irish Academy

About this place

The Royal Irish Academy (RIA; Irish: Acadamh Ríoga na hÉireann), based in Dublin, is an academic body that promotes study in the natural sciences, arts, literature, and social sciences. It is Ireland's premier learned society and one of its leading cultural and academic institutions. The academy was established in 1785 and granted a royal charter by King George III in 1786. As of 2026, the RIA has over 700 members, with regular members being Irish residents elected in recognition of their academic achievements, and honorary members similarly qualified but usually based abroad; a small number of members are also elected in recognition of non-academic contributions to the Irish society. All members are entitled to use the honorific title MRIA with their names. Until the late 19th century the Royal Irish Academy was the owner of the main national collection of Irish antiquities. It presented its collection of archaeological artefacts and similar items, which included such famous pieces as the Tara Brooch, the Cross of Cong and the Ardagh Chalice to what is now the National Museum of Ireland, but retains its very significant collection of manuscripts including the famous Cathach of Colmcille, the Lebor na hUidre (c. 1100), the later medieval Leabhar Breac, the Book of Ballymote, and the Annals of the Four Masters.

Visitor Information

Heritage status

Protected Heritage Site

Getting There & Parking

Royal Irish Academy is located in County Dublin, roughly 1 km (5 min drive) from Dublin. The nearest public car park is 83 m away (Paid). Nearby highlights within a short drive include Jorgensen Fine Art Gallery (0.1 km away).