In a suburb of Dublin stands the former Kilmainham Gaol, now a museum. The central hall features in the film THE ITALIAN JOB. As the title indicates, filming took place not only in Ireland but also on location in Italy, as well as in England and Switzerland.
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| Entrance Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, 2 July 2024 |
Kilmainham Gaol, a large and austere building with thick walls, was built between 1786 and 1796. Its only decoration is a sculpture above the main entrance: five chained dragons symbolising the five most serious crimes – murder, rape, theft, treason, and piracy. Prisoners were held here in appalling conditions, usually with several people in a single cell and only a candle for light and warmth. The prison closed in 1924. For years, the building stood empty and fell into disrepair.
Kilmainham Gaol was slated for demolition, but due to its historical significance, it was decided to preserve the prison. Restoration work began in 1960.
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| The five chained dragons |
The building opened to the public on 10 April 1966. Today, the former prison can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, up to 28 days ahead. Be sure to book early, as places are limited. Further information can be found on the
Kilmainham Gaol Museum website.
The movie was filmed in the summer and autumn of 1968. I have not been able to find out when the interior prison scenes were shot. The film also shows the exterior of the prison, but that is Wormwood Scrubs in England. Michael Caine plays Charlie Croker, a charming thief who is being released. Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to take the stairs to the upper floors, as the actors did.
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| The Italian Job, 0:05:05 |
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| Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, 2 July 2024 |
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| The Italian Job, 0:05:17 |
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| Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, 2 July 2024 |
Among the prisoners who send him off is Mr. Bridger (Noel Coward), who heads a criminal organisation.
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| The Italian Job, 0:05:22 |
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| Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, 2 July 2024 |
Mr. Bridger receives a huge round of applause from his fellow inmates after word is received he helped Charlie to steal Italian gold bars worth $4 million.
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| The Italian Job, 1:29:08 |
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| Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, 2 July 2024 |
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| The Italian Job, 1:29:28 |
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| Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin, 2 July 2024 |
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