This updated space tells the story of Dublin’s social and cultural life through donated everyday objects. Since opening in 2011, the museum has gathered over 6,000 artefacts, creating a quick, humorous and insightful look at Dublin’s past.

Among the items on display is the marble thumb from a statue on O’Connell Street, which was accidentally broken off during the Italia 90 celebrations. The thumb’s finder never quite got around to returning it, making it an unusual but telling part of Dublin's sporting history. The museum’s deputy curator, Dr Daryl Hendley Rooney, also highlighted three boxing gloves once owned by Gerry Ó Colmáin, Ireland’s only European heavyweight boxing champion, who burst a glove in his 1947 championship match.

The museum’s expanded collection also includes a class photo from Mount Temple Secondary School featuring the future members of U2, as well as a room dedicated to U2 and Irish music. Old bottles tell the story of Dublin’s original craft beer makers – long before Guinness began bottling their own brews in the 1960s. Visitors will find bottles from Dublin Pale Ale, Mountyjoy’s Nourishing Stout, and more, illustrating how these drinks were once considered essential for daily nourishment.

CEO Sarah Clancy says the remerged museum offers visitors of all ages a chance to engage with Dublin’s stories. “We create magical moments when visitors share their own memories and connections,” she says. New features include exhibitions designed for children, a doll’s house, and tales of the Dublin Zoo’s beloved elephant and the Fairview lion.

Funded by Dublin City Council, Fáilte Ireland, the Departments of Tourism, and other supporters, this €4.3 million transformation ensures the museum remains a lively tribute to Dublin’s past – welcoming all to contribute to its ongoing story.