Parliament House (currently Bank of Ireland), Dublin

Sitting majestically on the north side of College Green, this grand Palladian edifice holds a prestigious history as the former home of the Irish Parliament until 1801, marking it as the world's first purpose-built parliament building. The original structure, characterized by its central colonnaded section, was envisioned by Sir Edward Lovett Pearce in 1729 and completed by James Gandon in 1733. Within its walls, the main octagonal chamber housed the House of Commons, while the rectangular chamber adjacent to the east accommodated the House of Lords.

Over time, the building underwent modifications, with the east and west sides extended in 1785 and 1787, respectively. To unify these alterations with the original structure, gracefully curved curtain walls were erected, lending the building an air of elegance. Atop the main entrance stand statues representing Hibernia, symbolizing Ireland, alongside depictions of Fidelity and Commerce.

Following the dissolution of the Irish Parliament in 1801 with the implementation of the Acts of Union, the premises underwent a transformation into the Bank of Ireland. Notably, the bank maintained its own militia, as evidenced by the cannons flanking the main entrance.

While the House of Commons succumbed to fire damage and was repurposed into the bank's primary banking area, the ancient House of Lords was preserved and now serves as the boardroom. Here, visitors can marvel at the original arched, coffered ceiling, intricate oak panels, and exquisite tapestries depicting historic events such as the Battle of the Boyne and the Siege of Dublin. Adding to the grandeur is a crystal chandelier comprised of 1235 individual pieces.