Former Vikings themselves, the Normans had Britain under firm control by the mid 12th century but showed little interest in expanding to the neighbouring island which, following the death of Brian Ború, had become a battlefield for conflicting dynasties. Things changed however when, deposed by a neighbouring king, the King of Leinster approached the King of England (Henry II) for help to regain his throne, offering in return to make his kingship subject to Henry II’s overlordship.

Answering the call, the Normans arrived in 1169, led by the Earl of Pembroke, Richard de Clare (better known as Strongbow). Within a year, they had seized Dublin. After Stongbow inherited the kingship of Leinster, it was not a far leap for Henry II to proclaim Dublin to be under his control. The reconstruction and fortification of the captured city began immediately, leading to the erection of some of Dublin’s best-known landmarks, such as Christchurch Cathedral, St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle.