Mussenden Temple is situated on the grounds of Downhill Demesne, a large estate belonging to the National Trust. It overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and provides stunning views of the coastline.

The temple is a neoclassical building designed in the style of a rotunda. It was constructed in 1785 as part of the estate of Frederick Augustus Herve.

Mussenden Temple was built as a library and modelled after the Temple of Vesta in Italy. The structure is perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff, and its original purpose was to house the Earl-Bishop's books and act as a summer library.

Downhill Demesne:

The temple is part of the Downhill Demesne, which includes the ruins of the nearby Downhill Castle. The demesne covers a vast area with gardens, woodlands, and other architectural features.

Mussenden Temple is cared for by the National Trust, a conservation organization. The site is open to the public, allowing you to explore the temple and its surroundings.

Game of Thrones Connection:

The Downhill Beach, located below Mussenden Temple, was used as a filming location in HBO’s "Game of Thrones." The temple itself, with its dramatic cliffside setting, is not only an architectural gem but also features prominently in the coastal landscapes of the series.