Gone are the big, soulless rooms where hundreds of objects are displayed one after the other behind glass with insipid explanatory signs. Visiting the Little Museum of Dublin is first and foremost a total immersion in everyday life in the city in the 20th century.

The museum is housed in a charming Georgian-style house, with its red bricks and porch, and a pretty coloured door, which is very common in Dublin. The impression of being invited into the home of a local is total, making the experience all the more authentic.

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It seems to be a bit of both. If the objects are genuine relics of the past, donated by locals, their profusion and layout suggest a happy bazaar full of hidden treasures. But don't be fooled, this bazaar is very well organised and retraces the history (with a capital H) of Dublin through its many facets: social, political, cultural... You'll discover the major periods that shaped the city during the 20th century. And there were many significant events during this period: from the Easter Rising in 1916, to the War of Independence and the Irish Civil War... As many stories are told as there are objects in this most curious of flats.

The strength of this museum is its great diversity, particularly when it comes to history counters. It's not historians or sociologists who present their studies and work, but rather the testimonies of people who have played a part in history, as you explore the objects from room to room: Eamon de Valera, Michael Collins, James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, etc. are some of the great names from Dublin who have left their mark on their era, as have artists from the group U2, Sinead O'Connor and Phil Lynott, who have left an indelible mark on the city.

All these little anecdotes, great memories, snippets of life and testimonies of everyday life; they build the very identity of Dublin and have shaped the history of the city and the country.

One thing is certain: all the objects presented in this museum are unique. As unique as the story they tell. These are not objects on loan from major art collectors or museum institutions, but everyday objects donated to Dublin's Little Museum by local people, adding to the authentic spirit of the place.

When we step through the door of this Dublin institution, we are invited to encounter the history of Dublin, but not only that. It is also possible to take the experience and immersion even further, as the Little Museum of Dublin runs a welcome programme called "City of a Thousand Welcomes".

Its aim is to bring together foreign tourists and local volunteers. They all get together over a cup of coffee or tea, and get to know each other better. It's a great way to meet real Irish people, and why not visit some of Dublin's institutions together?