Leinster House is the 18th-century ducal palace that became the seat of the Irish parliament after independence. Built in 1745 for the Duke of Leinster, it was then the grandest private residence in Dublin. James Hoban, who designed the White House in Washington, was inspired by its proportions.
The Oireachtas (Irish parliament) has sat here since 1922. When the Dáil and Seanad are not in session, free guided tours are available by arrangement with the Houses of the Oireachtas. The National Museum and National Library on either side of the forecourt are freely accessible without a tour.