The short answer

The GPO is the best-known 1916 site, but it tells only part of the story. Moore Street, City Hall, the Four Courts area, St Stephen’s Green and other command positions show that the Rising was spread across the city.

The GPO and O’Connell Street

The General Post Office served as the headquarters of the provisional government. Its location on Sackville Street, now O’Connell Street, made it highly visible, but the garrison eventually evacuated as fire and bombardment made the position untenable.

People and street performers on Dublin's Grafton Street

Moore Street and the surrender

After leaving the GPO, members of the headquarters garrison moved through nearby buildings towards Moore Street. The area is essential for understanding the final phase and the decision to surrender, rather than treating the GPO as the whole event.

A network of positions

Other garrisons attempted to control approaches and strategic buildings. The fighting affected civilians, commercial streets and residential areas. A responsible route distinguishes the events at each position and avoids turning a complex urban conflict into a list of heroic landmarks.

  • Read the city as several commands, not one battlefield
  • Remember the large civilian impact
  • Use contemporary witness material where possible
  • Check museum hours before planning interiors

Sources and further checking

Official information can change. Check these sources close to your visit.