NORSEMAN PUB

18/02/2024

Situated in Dublin's popular Temple Bar district, the Victorian bar and partitions are over 120 years old.

Back in the late 1960s I worked for ITG an Hi-Fi importer and distributer which explains why I became an Electronics Engineer. Back then Temple Bar was no way like what it is today.

The name "Temple Bar" is generally thought to come from the Temple family, who built a house and gardens in the area in the early 1600s.

In the 18th century, Temple Bar became a centre for commerce and industry, with a customs house, warehouses, taverns, and brothels.

However, by the 19th century, the area had begun to decline, and by the 20th century, it was in a state of disrepair. When I worked there it was at best "run down".

In the late 20th century, Temple Bar was revitalised as a cultural and tourist destination. The cobbled streets and original architecture were preserved/restored, and many pubs, restaurants, and shops were opened.

Temple Bar is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dublin but in general it is an area that I avoid [mainly because of the prices charged by pubs and restaurants]. 

I came across a claim that the Temple Bar Pub was one of the oldest in Dublin but when I challenged this claim I received the following information:

"I apologise, while the Temple Bar pub is a popular and iconic establishment in Dublin, it is not one of the oldest pubs in the city. In fact, there are several pubs with claims to that title, depending on how you define "oldest."

Here's a breakdown of some contenders:

Officially oldest: The Brazen Head holds the official title of Dublin's oldest pub, with evidence of an inn operating on the site since 1198. The building you see today dates back to 1754.

Oldest licensed premises: The Norseman claims to have the oldest pub license in Temple Bar, dating back to 1696.

Early establishment: The Palace Bar, established in 1823, holds the title of being one of the oldest pubs specifically in the Temple Bar area itself.