The historic Magazine Fort in Dublin’s Phoenix Park has officially re-opened to the public following the completion of the first phase of a major conservation project by the Office of Public Works (OPW).
Designed by military engineer John Corneille and originally built between 1734 and 1736, the fort was used as a military gunpowder store. The fort is one of Ireland’s most significant surviving military sites. It also played a role during the 1916 Easter Rising before later being used by the Irish Army before it was transferred to the OPW in 1988.
The restoration included repairs to the fort’s rampart walls, gunpowder store buildings, the 1921 Bakery building and the reinstatement of the Duke of Dorset Gateway.
The works were carried out to preserve the site’s historic character while preparing it for public access.
Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers, said the investment “reflects the Government’s commitment to protecting Ireland’s built heritage while making it more accessible.”
He also highlighted the construction of a new commemorative bridge, which will link the Magazine Fort with the Irish National War Memorial Gardens. “The bridge is expected to create a new focal point overlooking the River Liffey and enhance the area’s appeal for both visitors and the local community.”
Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran, said “the conservation works will help protect the landmark for future generations while giving visitors a greater understanding of its history.”
The project, funded under the National Development Plan, has received €5.7 million in Government investment and has already won both the 2026 RIAI Conservation Award and the Irish Construction Excellence Award for Heritage and Conservation.
The Magazine Fort is now open for guided tours, which can be booked through the OPW Phoenix Park Visitor Centre.
