An Epic Journey

Ninety million people worldwide today have Irish descent. It’s an amazing fact, when you consider that the population of Ireland is only five million.

Members of this modern Irish ‘Diaspora’ include Barack Obama, George Clooney and Paul McCartney, while historic figures include Charles de Gaulle, John. F Kennedy and Grace Kelly. This shows why a museum has been opened to focus on the story of Irish Emigration and its influence on the world.

An Interactive Experience

Designed by the same company behind Titanic Belfast, EPIC – The Irish Emigration Museum is a €15 million attraction that is arguably the most digital museum in the world. There are amazing interactive displays throughout, including touch screens and games with motion sensor technology.

Museum Curator, Nathan Mannion, told me that “the goal of EPIC is to make Irish history accessible to everyone. Older visitors enjoy the content, while kids love the interactivity. We find there is a good mix for everyone.” 

“The Secret Diaspora”

But despite all the technology, it’s the inclusion of Irish figures in Latin America which stood out the most for me: Bernardo O’Higgins (Chile), Father Jim Crowe (Brazil) and Los San Patricios (Mexico). It is even mentioned that Bolivia has the highest Irish pub in the world!

Argentina’s one million-strong Irish diaspora is also prominent, with Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara Lynch, Santiago Phelan and William Brown being mentioned.

Every Person is Connected

EPIC is worth going to for anyone who has time to spare in Dublin. The official recommended visit time is 90 minutes, but I think that two or three hours allows you to fully experience it.

* Prices: Free (Children aged 0-5), €7 (Children aged 6 – 16), €12 (Seniors/Students), €14 (Adults)