A new cultural attraction in Dún Laoghaire is bringing the seafaring histories of Ireland and Greece together. The exhibition at dlr LexIcon explores thousands of years of maritime tradition, from prehistoric journeys and ancient trade to modern shipping and coastal communities.
Greek and Irish maritime history meets in Dún Laoghaire
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, working with the Embassy of Greece in Ireland, has opened 10,000 Years of Greek and Irish Maritime Tradition. The exhibition forms part of the Communicating Europe Initiative 2026 and the Ireland-Greece local authority programme.
Its location at dlr LexIcon is particularly fitting. Dún Laoghaire has long been defined by its harbour, coastal identity and connections with international travel. Through historical objects, images and stories, the exhibition examines how the sea influenced communities in both countries.
The display draws on collections from several respected institutions, including:
- The Hellenic Maritime Museum
- The Maritime Museum of Crete
- The Georgios Averof Floating Naval Museum
- The Museum of Hydra
- The National Maritime Museum of Ireland
Stories of voyages, trade and coastal life
Visitors can explore themes including traditional boatbuilding, maritime commerce, migration, exploration, naval history and cultural exchange. The exhibition also considers the continuing importance of the ocean to Greek and Irish identity, linking ancient voyages with the experiences of modern coastal communities.
Rather than presenting maritime history as a series of isolated national stories, the exhibition highlights shared experiences. Both Ireland and Greece have been shaped by island geography, seafaring knowledge, changing trade routes and generations of people whose lives depended on the water.
Public events planned at dlr LexIcon
Alongside the main display, dlr Libraries will host talks, family activities and educational programmes. These events will explore maritime heritage, European connections and the relationship between culture and the sea, offering opportunities for visitors of different ages to engage with the exhibition.
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Exhibition dates, venue and admission
- Exhibition: 10,000 Years of Greek and Irish Maritime Tradition
- Venue: dlr LexIcon, Moran Park, Dún Laoghaire
- Exhibition period: 15 October to 29 November 2026
- Launch: 14 October 2026
- Admission: Free
The launch was attended by representatives including Ireland’s Ambassador to Greece Ciara O’Floinn, Greece’s Ambassador to Ireland Georgius Stilianopoulos, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Cathaoirleach Barry Saul and council chief executive Frank Curran.
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A free cultural experience for visitors
With free entry and a central location beside Dún Laoghaire’s harbour, the exhibition provides an accessible way to discover the maritime links between Ireland and Greece. It is also a reminder that the sea is not only a geographic boundary but a route through which ideas, people, technology and traditions have travelled.
Key takeaway: 10,000 Years of Greek and Irish Maritime Tradition offers a timely look at two countries connected by their waters, with the exhibition remaining at dlr LexIcon until 29 November 2026.