Four Courts

The Four Courts, located on the banks of the River Liffey in Dublin, are one of the city’s most important and recognizable symbols. This majestic architectural complex not only represents the heart of the Irish judicial system but also encapsulates a rich history that reflects Ireland’s tumultuous political and social events. The origins of the Four Courts date back to the late 18th century. The project was commissioned by the British government to centralize the four main Irish courts of justice: the Court of Chancery, the Court of King’s Bench, the Court of Exchequer, and the Court of Common Pleas. Construction of the building began in 1786 under the direction of architect James Gandon, one of the most renowned architects of the time, already known for designing the Custom House and the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin. Gandon’s design for the Four Courts is inspired by the neoclassical style, with an imposing symmetrical facade, a Corinthian colonnade, and a large central dome. The dome, visible from much of the city, is topped by a lantern that adds a touch of elegance and majesty to the entire structure. The building was completed in 1802 and immediately became one of Dublin’s architectural landmarks. The Four Courts are not only an architectural masterpiece; they have also been the scene of crucial historical events. One of the most dramatic episodes occurred during the Irish Civil War in 1922. The Four Courts were occupied by anti-treaty forces, led by Rory O’Connor, as part of their opposition to the Anglo-Irish Treaty. The provisional government, determined to restore order, ordered the siege of the building. The siege culminated in a violent explosion that destroyed much of the complex, including the legal library, which contained invaluable historical documents. The reconstruction of the Four Courts began in 1924 and was completed in 1932. The building was restored with great attention to the original details, under the guidance of architect Thomas Manly Deane. Despite the damage sustained, the Four Courts were returned to their former glory, thus preserving an important piece of Irish architectural and historical heritage. Today, the Four Courts house the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, the High Court, and the Circuit Court. These institutions are the cornerstone of the Irish judicial system, and the building itself is a symbol of justice and the rule of law in Ireland. The courtrooms are adorned with wood paneling, marble, and artworks, creating a solemn and dignified atmosphere suitable for the seriousness of the legal functions that take place there. An interesting anecdote concerns the statue of King William III, which originally topped the dome of the Four Courts. The statue was removed during the reconstruction of the 1920s and was never replaced, due to the changing political climate and the desire to mark a new era in Irish history.