All You Need to Know About the EPIC Museum

The EPIC Museum, officially known as EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, is a modern, interactive museum in Dublin, Ireland, dedicated to telling the story of Irish emigration. Through immersive technology and multimedia, it showcases the journeys, contributions, and influence of the Irish diaspora worldwide.

The museum is situated in The CHQ Building on Custom House Quay, which is in Dublin's Docklands area along the River Liffey. This historic location was once a departure point for emigrants, adding a sense of authenticity to the museum's theme.

EPIC opened to the public in May 2016. Since then, it has received acclaim for its innovative approach to history and has quickly become a must-visit cultural destination in Dublin.

EPIC is an acronym symbolising “Every Person Is Connected.” The museum highlights the global impact of Irish emigrants and how the Irish diaspora has connected people and cultures across the world.

The museum explores themes of identity, culture, hardship, and the resilience of Irish emigrants while also showcasing the social, cultural, and economic contributions of the Irish abroad. It covers the reasons for emigration, the challenges faced, and the achievements of Irish people across various fields worldwide.

• Unlike traditional museums that mainly display physical artefacts, EPIC is fully digital and interactive. It uses cutting-edge technology like touch screens, interactive maps, audio-visual displays, and video interviews, making the experience more engaging and memorable.

Emigration is a significant part of Irish history, with an estimated 10 million people leaving Ireland over several centuries, often due to famine, economic hardship, or conflict. The Irish diaspora has spread globally, and EPIC tells its story, emphasising the Irish impact on various cultures.

The museum is divided into 20 themed galleries, each focusing on different aspects of the Irish emigration story, from the reasons for leaving to the cultural legacy of Irish people worldwide.

Each gallery is interactive and covers diverse topics, such as famous Irish inventors, artists, and sports figures. Other exhibits showcase the social, political, and economic contributions of Irish emigrants and explore their role in cultural movements and communities around the world.

EPIC employs augmented reality, touch-sensitive walls, video projections, and soundscapes that transport visitors to different times and places, providing a fully immersive storytelling experience.

Yes, the museum offers a genealogy centre called the Irish Family History Centre, where visitors can access resources, speak with genealogists, and receive guidance on tracing their Irish roots.

Notable highlights include interactive displays on famous Irish figures like Oscar Wilde, John F. Kennedy, and Grace Kelly, as well as sections on Irish contributions to global industries, culture, and social justice movements.

Absolutely. The museum has interactive elements that appeal to children, like passport stamps collected at each gallery and touch screens for exploring different aspects of Irish culture and history, making it engaging for all ages.

A typical visit takes about 90 minutes to two hours, though visitors may take more or less time depending on their interests and how deeply they engage with each exhibit.

The museum provides information in multiple languages, and audio guides are available in several languages, including French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Mandarin, among others.

Yes, EPIC offers a range of educational programs for schools, including workshops, guided tours, and digital resources. These programs are designed to teach students about Irish history, emigration, and global cultural contributions.

The museum frequently hosts events, workshops, and temporary exhibitions focused on different aspects of Irish heritage, global history, or contemporary issues related to the Irish diaspora.

EPIC is fully wheelchair-accessible, with elevators and ramps throughout. It also offers sensory-friendly maps and quiet areas for those who may need them.

Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos and share their experiences on social media. The museum even has photogenic spots designed for memorable snapshots.

The EPIC gift shop offers a wide range of souvenirs, books, and Irish-themed gifts, including items related to Irish history, culture, and emigration.

While the museum itself doesn’t have a café, The CHQ Building, where it’s located, houses several restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes where visitors can dine before or after their visit.

No, while the Great Famine is a major focus due to its impact on emigration, the museum covers all significant waves of emigration from Ireland across various eras, including the 20th century and modern-day migrations.

Ticket prices vary, with discounts available for families, students, and seniors. Children under 6 receive free entry, and there are special rates for online bookings.