Mussenden Temple is a small circular building located on the North Coast of Northern Ireland, near Castlerock and Downhill Demesne. The temple was built in 1785 and served as a summer library for the Bishop of Derry, Frederick Augustus Hervey. The temple was designed by Michael Shanahan, who was a student of the famous architect Sir William Chambers.
The temple is situated on a dramatic cliff-top location, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The temple was inspired by the Temple of Vesta, a Roman temple located in Tivoli, Italy. The circular structure is made of sandstone and is supported by four pillars. The temple features a domed roof and a circular viewing platform.
Today, the temple is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors drawn to its stunning location and architectural beauty. The temple is surrounded by picturesque gardens, which are home to a variety of rare plants and flowers. The temple and gardens are open to the public throughout the year and are managed by the National Trust.