What About Visiting Galway, Ireland?

Galway, Ireland is noted for its frequent arts festivals. Many artists, musicians and writers have originated here. This city is the perfect place for someone to learn all about the richness of Irish culture.

During the Middle Ages, the city of Galway became an established international trading post, but the city's origin goes clear back to 1124.

Even today, Galway has retained much of the Irish culture--traditions, music, dance, song, and storytelling. Irish is still commonly spoken here, unlike most Irish cities who have adopted the English language.

The city is full of medievel architecture, including the St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church built in 1320. There are some beautiful Renaissance cathedrals as well.

Galway, Ireland is located on the west coast and gets its name from the Gaillimh River (or "stony" river). It also carries the nickname, the City of the Tribes because of the 14 merchant families who originally founded it.

Today, Galway is Ireland's fastest growing city and has a reputation for being one of the best tourist destinations in the world. It contributes significantly to the country's commercial industries.

Highlights

If you were to visit Galway, Ireland, here are a few places you definitely do not want to miss:

• Eyre Square park is the focal point of the city of Galway. Lynch's Castle is a great example of incredible medievel architecture.

• The St. Nicholas of Myra Church, the Galway City Courthouse, Galway Cathedral and the Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas are some other architectural wonders worth seeing.

• The home of James Joyce's wife, Nora Barnacle has been completely restored and gives visitors a sense of what life was like at the turn of the century.

• Quay Street features several quaint pubs that give you a genuine taste of Irish culture. Also, on Quay Street you'll find the Spanish Arch, a tribute to Spanish traders who used to frequent the city.

• Claddagh Village is a vital part of Galway's history and should be visited as well.

• You can see much more of Galway's history at the Galway City Museum, which was recently opened.

If you are a person who is trying to learn more about your Irish heritage, then Galway is a great place to start.

Back to top of "What About Visiting Galway, Ireland?"