Skip to main content

History of the Academy

Founded in 1785, the RIA is Ireland’s premier learned body. The Earl of Charlemont was its first president.

History of the Academy

Painting of a side profile of the Earl of Charlemont.

Contact Us

Find out relevant department contact details and where we are located.

Contact Us

RIA entrance on Dawson street

Membership

The RIA currently has approximately 680 Members (including 98 Honorary Members), who are elected in recognition of their academic achievements. Membership of the Academy is the highest academic honour in Ireland.

Support Us

The Royal Irish Academy is a registered charity. Support from our Donors, Corporate Friends, Sponsors and Affiliates aids the Royal Irish Academy to nurture our best young academics, to preserve our treasured library resources for current and future researchers, to present engaging, informative and challenging events and publications that impact public thinking and policy formation.

Support Us