ABSTRACT
The Chester Beatty Library, Dublin, originates from the extensive collections of Sir A. C. Beatty (1875–1968), including Islamic, East Asian and biblical manuscripts, Western printed books, Old Master prints and South-East Asian, Tibetan, Ethiopian and Armenian holdings of great importance, together representing 57 different languages. Started as a traditional library in 1953, it re-opened in the restored Clock Tower Building of the Dublin Castle in 2000. Connected by a glass-roofed entrance, the main exhibitions have been situated in a purpose-built new building since 2000. The evocative displays, mainly dedicated to Christianity, Islam and Buddhism, promote appreciation and understanding of world cultures, also reaching out to the culturally diverse communities in Ireland.
