Glasnevin Cemetery was established in 1832 by Daniel O’Connell. Glasnevin Cemetery is Ireland’s premier 124-acre national cemetery and historical landmark located in Dublin. Holding over 1.5 million burials. It was founded to provide a respectful burial ground for Catholics and people of all faiths, with the first burial in 1832. It serves as a massive open-air gallery of Irish history, culture, and Victorian architecture. Designed as a peaceful, landscaped garden cemetery, it features the largest collection of Celtic crosses in the world.  

Known as the “dead centre” of Dublin, it serves as a national necropolis for Ireland’s most influential figures. It serves as the final resting place for Irish figures like Michael Collins, Eamon de Valera, Charles Stewart Parnell and other pivotal figures including Countess Markievicz, Brendan Behan, Charles Stewart Parnell, and Luke Kelly. 

Due to the activities of body-snatchers in the 18th and 19th-century the site was protected by high walls and watchtowers with armed guards.

The “population” of the dead in Glasnevin slightly exceeds the living population of modern Dublin (April 2025 estimates)

The O’Connell Tower, visitors can climb the 198 steps of the 180 foot 19th-century tower (Ireland’s tallest round tower) for panoramic city views. Daniel O’Connell is buried in the crypt beneath his monument. Learn about the history, restoration and significance of the O’Connell Tower.