The story began with the building’s commissioning in 1781 when architect James Gandon was brought to Ireland by John Beresford, the first commissioner of revenue. Beresford envisioned a monumental public building to house the customs offices, symbolizing British control over Irish trade and taxation. The original stand he used to draw the buildings project is also displayed in one of the rooms. The guide helped us envision the political climate of the time, noting how controversial it was to move the customs offices further downstream along the River Liffey, due to the corruptin of some political fugures. Howevr, most merchants supported the move since congestion in the river meant it took them days to reach the old custom house, causing many of their products to spoil.

As we entered, the guide took us through key areas such as the central Rotunda, the Commissioners’ Room, and the varous custom offices. They explained how the Custom House was built on marshy ground, requiring thousands of timber piles to be driven deep into the earth, a remarkable engineering achievement for its time. The foundation work alone took over a year, and the guide detailed how this accomplishment allowed the rest of the building to rise in perfect symmetry, featuring colonnades, richly decorated pediments, and a magnificent central dome. The stones used in construction were sourced from across Ireland: granite from Wicklow and Portland stone for the ornate carvings.

Interestingly, our guide noted that Gandon insisted on using local materials and Irish craftsmen whenever possible. While this may seem contradictory for a building meant to symbolize British power, it also subtly highlighted Irish skill and resources, perhaps hinting at an early sense of national pride and cultural independence. This perspective added depth to the tour, prompting us to reflect on the building’s complex symbolism.

One highlight was learning about the 11-tonne statue of Commerce sitting on top of the dome. The guide described the dome as an engineering marvel, designed not only for aesthetic beauty but also to support the weight of this huge sculpture. It represents an allegorical figure of trade and economic strength. Despite modern Dublin’s shifting skyline, this dome remains one of its most recognizable landmarks.

Inside the building, we observed where customs officials, merchants, and revenue officers once worked. The guide described how the Custom House operated as a busy administrative center where all imports and exports were logged and taxed, serving as a critical part of the British Empire in Ireland. They stressed that the building was more than just an office; it was a tool of colonial power and economic control.