The Royal Hospital Kilmainham was established and built between 1680 and 1684 on a 60-acre site granted by King Charles II at the instigation of James Butler, First Duke of Ormond. Inspired by 'Les Invalides' in Paris, France, then recently opened as Louis XIV's home for his army pensioners, Ormond obtained a charter from King Charles to construct a similar type of building at Kilmainham. Historical tours of the building are catered for. As this site is managed by the OPW, school tour visits are permitted free of charge provided certain conditions are met.