The home of the Dáil (Irish House of Representatives) and Seanad (Irish Senate), this is the modern center of Irish government. Dating from 1745, it was originally known as Kildare House and was the seat of the Dukes of Leinster. Like the Parliament House building, it is said to have been a major influence on the architects of Washington, D.C.; the resemblance to Irish-born James Hoban’s design for the White House, built 78 years later, is certainly clear enough. When the Dáil is not in session, tickets are available for guided tours, three times a day, on Mondays and Fridays. You don’t have to book in advance, but tour numbers are strictly limited. To reserve tickets, the events desk prefers an email (event.desk@oireachtas.ie; include your full name, address, and telephone number), or you can call [tel] 01/618-3271 or 3781. Note: You need to bring photo I.D. (such as a driver’s license or passport) to gain admission, and leave large or bulky bags at home. Because this is a government building, you should arrive a few minutes early to allow for security checks before your tour.