Galway is an enchanting Harbour City of West Ireland in a charming county with the same name on a stupendous wide Atlantic bay in the province of Connacht, a very bustling, lively and attractive centre crossed by the river Corrib at 210,0 kilometres from the capital of the country Dublin.
Situated on the shore of the Loch Corrib, the second largest waters basin of the country behind the Loch Neagh covering a surface of 176,0 square kilometres mentioned by William Wilde father of Oscar Wilde in a book published in 1867 where he built a summerhouse on its banks called Moytura House, that great place lies as for enchantment in a stunning scenery of waters and also that is a special feature which makes it very special and unique in its kind.
Boasting a unique and incomparable seafaring history with captivating centuries linked to old superb navigation and fishing traditions that site always lived with its unmistakable buzzing spirit having in the sea a loyal allied in adventures and historical events during the course of all its fascinating chronological stages which marked its strong and marked identity.
What is also very impressive in addition is that immediately behind that spectacular environment starts an extended picturesque green countryside, a further fascinating attraction entering in a world packed by legends and narrations closely related to the most suggestive and mystical Celtic culture.
Situated on the shore of the Loch Corrib, the second largest waters basin of the country behind the Loch Neagh covering a surface of 176,0 square kilometres mentioned by William Wilde father of Oscar Wilde in a book published in 1867 where he built a summerhouse on its banks called Moytura House, that great place lies as for enchantment in a stunning scenery of waters and also that is a special feature which makes it very special and unique in its kind.
Boasting a unique and incomparable seafaring history with captivating centuries linked to old superb navigation and fishing traditions that site always lived with its unmistakable buzzing spirit having in the sea a loyal allied in adventures and historical events during the course of all its fascinating chronological stages which marked its strong and marked identity.
What is also very impressive in addition is that immediately behind that spectacular environment starts an extended picturesque green countryside, a further fascinating attraction entering in a world packed by legends and narrations closely related to the most suggestive and mystical Celtic culture.
The ancient Gaillimh as is also known is today with its approximately 75,000 inhabitants is the sixth most populous municipality of the Nation and the fourth for urban area, it is one of the liveliest and vibrant centres of Éire and one of the most important seats for studies thanks to the presence of a renowned University among the most prestigious and notorious of the entire
country with a constant presence of numerous students coming from different areas of the country and abroad.
Galway is is considered in terms of development, education and services one of the most notable centres in Europe for its constant progress although it has kept with extreme pride its cultural, historical and monumental patrimony very well preserved.
Galway is is considered in terms of development, education and services one of the most notable centres in Europe for its constant progress although it has kept with extreme pride its cultural, historical and monumental patrimony very well preserved.
All that is a great incentive for every tourist to discover something of highly attractive which generally bewitches everybody facing an enchanting reality conserving in its boundaries outstanding architectural gems and apart its ancient history, it is a very livable centre developed on a human scale not too big but neither too small and you can reach the most important sites in its urban area in a short time thanks to a transport network pretty efficient.
Also for those features it is very loved by many people who decide to live and by several tvisitors who can visit it admiring many attractions without stress using transports or with long marathons and long distance from a point to another in the municipal boundaries.
Very interesting is the local history starting from its name which in its earliest period was Dún Bhun na Gaiillimhe meaning fortress at the mouth of river Gaillimh, because the former settlement with a former fort was established in the western boundaries close to that waterway and the two words Gailli and Imhe,respectively mean river and stony for the surface of its bed.
As other places in the world there are always controversial opinions about the origin of denominations. About Galway some are linked to legends and Ireland with its fantastic culture and heritage as you know is rich and the most notorious tells that it derives from Galvia,the daughter of King Breasal who died drowned in the river in a concrete point in which the current city was originally founded.
The name of the current city was Anglicised in Galliv and it was nicknamed Cathair na dTreabh, the City of the tribes related to fourteen families of merchants who governed the settlement in the Middle Ages and for a long time loyal to the Anglo-Norman Crown.
Populated by the first Celts populations who settled Ireland approximately 7000 years ago with a recorded population existing in 5000 BC the ancient county was subdvided later in several kingdoms, the first settlement concerning Galway was established in 1124 by Tairrdelbach Ua Conchobair alias Turlough Mór Connor, King of Connacht from 1106 to 1156 and also elevated High King of Ireland since 1120.
It consisted in a small centre developed on the banks of the Corrib in proximity of its estuary with inhabitants mainly devoted to agriculture and fishing and with the elevation of a defencive stronghold for desire of that influential Monarch founder of the O' Connor dynasty.
In that period and in following centuries many another notorious clan gained relevance, the O´Flaherty pretty feared for their continuous desires of expansion,belligerent and brave having a strong influence in many villages and towns.
That was a relevant cradle Celtic culture strongly linked to the traditions transmitted by the ancestors very rooted in those Clans generation by generation with codes to respect, ierarchies and desire to establish and enlarge the name of a family in fame and popularity with pride.
All that happened before the occupation in 1230 by Richard Mór de ,a Hiberno-Norman aristocrat eldest son of William de Burgh founder of the dynasty with that surname landed in Ireland in 1185 associated with John King of England successor of the iconic Sovereign Richard I well known as Richard the Lioheart former Duke of Normandy with the name of Richard IV.
That expedition leading the successful Anglo-Normans campaign to conquer that land of Ireland elevated that Condottiere as 1st Baron of Connaght but he had several difficulties to defeat the Irish Clans facing a strong local resistance.
Many battles were protagonists hamlets by hamlets and also the conquest of that fort was a historic defence by several sieges including when the O´Flaherty wanted to reconquer that manor despite it was further fortified by those new rulers.
Galway since then became an important headquarter of that House but the the difficulties continued when the de Burgh family was Celtised fiinding a strong opposition by the local merchants linked to the 14 tribes who led an intense control over the walled town.
The names corresponding to those influential families were : French, Font, Joyce, Kirwin, Lynch, Martin, Morris, Skerrett, Deane, D' Arcy, Blake,Browne, Athy and Bodkin.They established very active networks developing important traffics in constant growth with England, France Wales and later with the Iberian Peninsula starting to import Spanish wine since the 14th century.
Curious was the composition of those influential families who monopolized the commerce of that centre for six centuries until 19th century loyal to the English Monarchy, 12 of them were of Anglo-Norman heritage and only two were of Irish origin.
All that had a notable resonance in the entire land because for many locals that was as a strategy to overshadow the spirit of old families who previously made the history of Ireland and that large number of foreign influential traders was considered as an oligarchy in the hands of an occupier.
in 1477 Christopher Columbus during a trip across the North Sea visiting Iceland and the Faroe Island stopped in Galway and also that presence of an eminent character who just fifteen years later discovered America increased the popularity of the town.
On December 1484 the English Crown granted that coastal centre a mayoral status and the 14 Tribes controlled the entire traffics, it was since then that Galway started to develop its well marked seafaring ascent becoming in a very short time the most active harbour city of West Ireland, an important trade hub regarded and admired all around the country.
It lived since that period its golden ages, well known all around the British Islands,Ireland and abroad with very active routes with its ships landing on important European ports,from Normandy to Bretagne until the Biscay Bay and including reaching the Northern coasts of Portugal.
In addition that thriving harbour reached the highest ranking as the most important Irish seaport in terms of navigation and trade towards Spain and in the 16th century it received many boats coming from that land fand thanks also to the growth of importation increased business and economic revenues.
Spain as Catholic country just like Ireland gained the sympathies of the locals and apart that active wine trade continuing with success, the native population supported the Spaniards in fishing salmon in Irish territory and King Felipe II of Spain thanks to that payed a tax receiving the right to practise that activity in Irish waters.
The cooperation was very active since the beginning but for the rulers was as a signal and symbol of challenge against the loyalty to the Crown, the English Governors despite receiving an economical and financial entrance by that foreign Monarchy were not very glad of that "strange" alliance with the local fishermen who always participated to those fishing operations.
The port due to that became very frequented by many Spanish fishermen and ships from that country and some British writers and visitors coming from Great Britain declared
that place had very little in common with an English port or other Irish harbours but it
was much more similar to a typical port of Spain place for its atmosphere, noise, voices
and rhythms all features considered traditional of the Iberian Peninsula and the
Mediterranean basin.
In the 16th and early 17th century Ireland lived a period of Celtic insurrection on large scale but Galway remained loyal to the English Crown.
Something changed in 1642 during the Wars of the three Kingdoms also known as British Civil Wars started in 1639 with a large conflict which took place in Scotland, Ireland and England period i which Galway established an alliance with the Catholic Confederation of Kilkenny, an Institution led the Irish Catholic aristocracy supported by military leaders of the rebellion of 1641 and the clergy.
That event ended in 1651 sanctioned the victory of the National Parlamentary Army led by Oliver Cromnwell determining the defeat of the Irish Confederates, the Scottish Covenanters, the execution of King Charles I and the exile of his son Charles II.
Galway after nine months of siege was conquered by Cromwell leader of a massive operations which saw the landing on Irish soil of over 40,000 soldiers and he was awarded with the title of 1st Lord of the Commonwealth.
Despite a very rigid military regime and control the entire territory many locals continued to speak the Gaeltacht and to name the city with its original Celtic name in a sort of challenge and defiance against that occupier.
At the end of the 17th century that centre supported the Jacobites focused to restore the Monarchy of the Roman Catholic Stuart King James II of England in the famous Williamite War against the Williamites which participated next to the Protestant Dutch Prince of Orange William of Orange , a conflict which endured from 12th March 1689 to 3rd October 1691.
That war sentenced the victory of the second contenders and determined after a fierce clash highlighted by devastation and destruction a notable decay of the harbour city with all the major activites living a very sad decline continuing in the following centuries with riots and revolts and due to that sadly that centredid not return to be anymore that powerful mercantile Queen of the past.
In the early 20th century the country obtained the Independence and the city of the province of Connaght had to wait for long time to have a renaissance when some years later the current Republic of Ireland had a notable economic development with a relaunch of the economy focused to productive processes linked to partnerships and establishments of companies with more volumes in terms of commercial traffics.
In the 16th and early 17th century Ireland lived a period of Celtic insurrection on large scale but Galway remained loyal to the English Crown.
Something changed in 1642 during the Wars of the three Kingdoms also known as British Civil Wars started in 1639 with a large conflict which took place in Scotland, Ireland and England period i which Galway established an alliance with the Catholic Confederation of Kilkenny, an Institution led the Irish Catholic aristocracy supported by military leaders of the rebellion of 1641 and the clergy.
That event ended in 1651 sanctioned the victory of the National Parlamentary Army led by Oliver Cromnwell determining the defeat of the Irish Confederates, the Scottish Covenanters, the execution of King Charles I and the exile of his son Charles II.
Galway after nine months of siege was conquered by Cromwell leader of a massive operations which saw the landing on Irish soil of over 40,000 soldiers and he was awarded with the title of 1st Lord of the Commonwealth.
Despite a very rigid military regime and control the entire territory many locals continued to speak the Gaeltacht and to name the city with its original Celtic name in a sort of challenge and defiance against that occupier.
At the end of the 17th century that centre supported the Jacobites focused to restore the Monarchy of the Roman Catholic Stuart King James II of England in the famous Williamite War against the Williamites which participated next to the Protestant Dutch Prince of Orange William of Orange , a conflict which endured from 12th March 1689 to 3rd October 1691.
That war sentenced the victory of the second contenders and determined after a fierce clash highlighted by devastation and destruction a notable decay of the harbour city with all the major activites living a very sad decline continuing in the following centuries with riots and revolts and due to that sadly that centredid not return to be anymore that powerful mercantile Queen of the past.
In the early 20th century the country obtained the Independence and the city of the province of Connaght had to wait for long time to have a renaissance when some years later the current Republic of Ireland had a notable economic development with a relaunch of the economy focused to productive processes linked to partnerships and establishments of companies with more volumes in terms of commercial traffics.
Despite the golden ages lived for some centuries since medieval times are part of a wealthy historical period in a more contemporary era that Irish centre continued to keep its identity and it is still a very active place devoted to fishing and navigation something which never died as a sort of magic chain extremely rooted and preserved.
The centre is pretty compact, the core of the Galway lies around the busy and bustling Eyre Square and from there taking William Street in five minutes walking you can reach St. Nicholas Church not far from the building which was once the seat of Lynch Castle.
The iconic Spanish Arch is immediately after crossing High Street and once there you are close to the port. On the eastern side of the harbour if turn on Dock Road continuing along Queen Road you can easily return to Eyre Square and along the nearest Merchant Street close to Griffin Road you will be near the banks of the river Corrib.
The Cathedral is situated on the Nun´s Island crossing the river by Bridge Street close to High Street, and once crossed it on the right as alternative if you want you can to enjoy a walk along Market Street continuing towards Francis Street crossing King´s Gap Bridge further north of the centre.
That is a sort of organised visit having different points of reference to know better the area in which are concentrated the main attractions and major monuments.
You can start the visit from the emblematic Eyre Square considered the beating heart of the city, it is a meeting point for locals, students and tourists. That central urban hub boasts the presence all around it of several cafes,restaurants bars and it is adjacent to Galway Station.
It is also known as An Fhaiche Mhór or John Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial Park and the origin of that large urban rectangular area is since medieval times when it was an open space next to a disappeared gate called Green Markets which was one of the busiest meeting points of the iconic 14 tribes.
In 1610 it had a first large development and one century later it was named Eyre Square presented by the Mayor Edward Eyre and bearing the name of that former Galway governor. In 1810 the General Meyrick ordered to elevate a high stone wall all around the perimeter of that area while in the the middle of the 19th century it was transformed in a space with a traditional Georgian style architecture.
In the 60's of the 20th century it had a considerable remodelling and In 1965 it took the denomination John Fitzgerald Kennedy to pay homage to that U.S.A president of Irish heritage who visited Galway and on 29th March 1963 he made a speech in that place.
In that huge city-inner park you can see a portrait of that American Statesman and also a statue depicting Liam Mellows, a hero of the War of Independence born in Lancashire, England but grew up in Ireland in small village called Inch situated in the County of Wexford.
Another highlight is the presence of Browne Doorway. It was originally the doorway of the former residence of the Family Browne, one of the most influential of the 14 tribes moved from the former House in Abbeygate Street to Eyre Square in 1905.
In that big square you can also see the Hotel Meyrick the oldest Hotel of the city inaugurated in 1852. It previously had other names such as Railway Hotel and Great Southern Hotel.
It is the only bulding of Galway with the Cathedral to have been built using limestone and it had several prominent people as guests among them Charles de Gaulle, Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, John Ford, Paul Newman, Jack Nicholson and also football stars as George Best and Kenny Dalglish among others.
From there you can reach the nearest Shop Street and as its name says it is the top urban axis for shopping, a lively artery on which you can find every time something of very trendy and with the presence of high fashion boutiques.
The great atmosphere of that hallway arranged in the 18th century is a shining spot of the eternally animated Galway anytime,morning or evening, it is one of the most frequented passageways of the municipality thanks also to its very central position and obliged cross point to visit the historic centre.
The Town Hall Theatre situated in Courthouse Square also known as Ahmarclann Halla na Catrach is a big building erected in 1820 which originally hosted The Court House and in 1950 it became the City Council seat .It was later transformed in a cinema but falling in decay. Between 1993 and 1995 it was re-opened as a Theatre-Auditorium inaugurated in October 1995.
It is a big stone building with a large central portico formed by an imposing colonnade formed by four high circular columns with square capitals flanked by two wings with large arched windows and it has a capacity of 393 spectactors in the Auditorium with another studio space which can contain 60 people.
It is a big stone building with a large central portico formed by an imposing colonnade formed by four high circular columns with square capitals flanked by two wings with large arched windows and it has a capacity of 393 spectactors in the Auditorium with another studio space which can contain 60 people.
Very close you can admire one of the historical and monumental local highlights of the vity the Collegiate of St.Nicholas erected in medieval times concretely in 1320 commissioned by the family Lynch one of the most powerful families settled in the city since the 14th century and enlarged in the following centuries.
Thar Religious building is considered one of the best medieval architectural masterpieces presents in the country and furthermore one of the best preserved.The Church was for a long period a Protestant Temple despite the name never changed and it was dedicated to St.Nicholas of Myra Patron Saint of the seafarers when Galway was recognised as an official harbour town.
That splendid construction is a great Gothic work with an ample refined facade beneath a sloping roof with an impressive square tower boasting a scenic clock and highlighted by a splendid square.
In the interior of that spectacular construction you can see the famous Crusader´s Tomb, a relevant baptismal font dated the 15th century and simply wonderful is the execution of the barrel vaults above the apse with a magnificent stained glass window placed behind the altar.
Thar Religious building is considered one of the best medieval architectural masterpieces presents in the country and furthermore one of the best preserved.The Church was for a long period a Protestant Temple despite the name never changed and it was dedicated to St.Nicholas of Myra Patron Saint of the seafarers when Galway was recognised as an official harbour town.
That splendid construction is a great Gothic work with an ample refined facade beneath a sloping roof with an impressive square tower boasting a scenic clock and highlighted by a splendid square.
In the interior of that spectacular construction you can see the famous Crusader´s Tomb, a relevant baptismal font dated the 15th century and simply wonderful is the execution of the barrel vaults above the apse with a magnificent stained glass window placed behind the altar.
That site is also very famous because it was visited by Christopher Columbus in 1477 during a trip to the Far Oer Islands and the Genoese navigator stopped in Galway enjoying a visit in that Irish seaport paying homage to St,Nicholas and praying in that Collegiate.
That Religious seat also played an important role also in terms of social life during the times of the notorious 14 tribes hosting several meetings of those active merchants and curiosly the participation was also permitted to male members.
In the square in front of the Church is celebrated every Saturday a market which makes that place a lively attraction with its several food, accessories,objects and handcrafts stalls so if you are there in that concrete day it is a great occasion to see something of very interesting and maybe an idea to buy something of attractive.
That Religious seat also played an important role also in terms of social life during the times of the notorious 14 tribes hosting several meetings of those active merchants and curiosly the participation was also permitted to male members.
In the square in front of the Church is celebrated every Saturday a market which makes that place a lively attraction with its several food, accessories,objects and handcrafts stalls so if you are there in that concrete day it is a great occasion to see something of very interesting and maybe an idea to buy something of attractive.
Next to the Collegiate you can see another historical place the Lynch´s Window.It is a stone wall on which were fixed several elements coming from other buildings and one of them is a the famous Lynch window frame reminding and episode in which the powerful James Lynch mayor of Galway hanged his son who had been accused of murder.
That event happened in 1493 is linked to Lynch Junior who killed a young Spanish man called Gomez. The Spaniard was stubbed in a street and launched his in the Corrib river because the son of the mayor suspected a possible love story with his girl friend.
It was period in which that man established a sort of reign of terror in Galway and including he was the Judge at the court sentencing to death his own son for that crime.
That event happened in 1493 is linked to Lynch Junior who killed a young Spanish man called Gomez. The Spaniard was stubbed in a street and launched his in the Corrib river because the son of the mayor suspected a possible love story with his girl friend.
It was period in which that man established a sort of reign of terror in Galway and including he was the Judge at the court sentencing to death his own son for that crime.
A short distance from there you can see the building which was originally Lynch Castle former stronghold of that powerful family. Built in the 15th century today it hosts the Allied Irish Bank and it totally changed aspect but it kept the old Coat of Arms on a wall.
Galway offers the visitor some interesting museums and for who is a fan of the famed writer James Joyce one of the emblematic symbols of the Irish and International literature it is a must to visit Nora Barnacle House Museum in 8 Bowl Green.
It is hosted in a small house elevated in the 19th century former residence o the family of Nora Barnacle wife of the famous writer from Dublin who spent several stays in that house.In the ground floor there are some rooms consisting in a dining room, a kitchen, a bedroom and Annie Barnacle the mother in law of the artist lived there until her death in 1940.
In 1987 the building was in bad conditions and it was purchased by Sheila and Marie Gallagher who restored it and opened to the public that site which became a notable destination and landmark of Galway.
In Flood Street you can see a section of medieval wall erected in the 13th century by the family de Burgh. It is called halla an Iarla Rua or the Hall of the Red Earl which consisted in a multi-purpose site covering the role of Town Hall, Court House, Banqueting Hall and Tax Office among others.
It is hosted in a small house elevated in the 19th century former residence o the family of Nora Barnacle wife of the famous writer from Dublin who spent several stays in that house.In the ground floor there are some rooms consisting in a dining room, a kitchen, a bedroom and Annie Barnacle the mother in law of the artist lived there until her death in 1940.
In 1987 the building was in bad conditions and it was purchased by Sheila and Marie Gallagher who restored it and opened to the public that site which became a notable destination and landmark of Galway.
In Flood Street you can see a section of medieval wall erected in the 13th century by the family de Burgh. It is called halla an Iarla Rua or the Hall of the Red Earl which consisted in a multi-purpose site covering the role of Town Hall, Court House, Banqueting Hall and Tax Office among others.
Another relevant exhibition is certainly Galway City Museum situated next to the banks of the bay and Dock Road.
Situated next to the old stone walls that modern building was designed by the architects Ger Harvey and Ciaran O' Connor, it offers the great chance to discover the local history in different chronological stages from the foundation of the first settlement until the more recent times and it was founded on 29th June 2006 despite the exhibition already existed since the 70's hosted in Comerford House.
That Museum hosts different rooms subdivided in various sections introducing varied themes such as Pre-Historic Galway, Medieval Galway, Cinema in Galway, Galway and the Wars of the Empire, Man and Statue and another consisting in Dance Hall Days.
In addition it displays a series of objects,utensils and tools representing the ancient and traditional agricultural and rural society of the past ,items linked to the military periods and there are also sections devoted to the pure art with some sculpture of the 16th and 17th century.
Other spaces contain items related to the most representative Celtic local folklore and traditions of the county and other corners are devoted to Archeology, Geology, Natural History, Social and Political life.
Inside you can also see a statue depicting Pádraic Ó Conaire, a famous journalist and writers born in Galway considered the pioneer of the modernist fiction in Irish language. That man who also lived for a period in London wrote 26 books, he was an organiser member of the Gaelic League and well known to be an eminent professor of Gaeltach language and that sculpure was moved from Eyre Square to the museum.
Situated next to the old stone walls that modern building was designed by the architects Ger Harvey and Ciaran O' Connor, it offers the great chance to discover the local history in different chronological stages from the foundation of the first settlement until the more recent times and it was founded on 29th June 2006 despite the exhibition already existed since the 70's hosted in Comerford House.
That Museum hosts different rooms subdivided in various sections introducing varied themes such as Pre-Historic Galway, Medieval Galway, Cinema in Galway, Galway and the Wars of the Empire, Man and Statue and another consisting in Dance Hall Days.
In addition it displays a series of objects,utensils and tools representing the ancient and traditional agricultural and rural society of the past ,items linked to the military periods and there are also sections devoted to the pure art with some sculpture of the 16th and 17th century.
Other spaces contain items related to the most representative Celtic local folklore and traditions of the county and other corners are devoted to Archeology, Geology, Natural History, Social and Political life.
Inside you can also see a statue depicting Pádraic Ó Conaire, a famous journalist and writers born in Galway considered the pioneer of the modernist fiction in Irish language. That man who also lived for a period in London wrote 26 books, he was an organiser member of the Gaelic League and well known to be an eminent professor of Gaeltach language and that sculpure was moved from Eyre Square to the museum.
The famed Spanish Arch also known as Póirse Caloch is next to the City Museum and it is originally an architectural prolongation from Martin's tower to the banks of the Corrib river erected in 1584 by the Mayor Wylliam Martin.
The structure was modified in the 18th century by Eyre Family, an operation managed to enlarge the quays and that space was named the Long Walk establishing the arches which permitted and easy access to the quays from the town.
Since then it also became refuge for boats and ships of the sailors and fishermen and the name Spanish Arch is from Spanish fishermen and sailors who reached Galway and due to their constant presence it was also called Spanish Parade.
For 30 years until 2006 the Spanish Arch hosted the Galway City Museum which was moved to the nearest current modern building and in the past that space was also used for other purposes including hosting a school.
The structure was modified in the 18th century by Eyre Family, an operation managed to enlarge the quays and that space was named the Long Walk establishing the arches which permitted and easy access to the quays from the town.
Since then it also became refuge for boats and ships of the sailors and fishermen and the name Spanish Arch is from Spanish fishermen and sailors who reached Galway and due to their constant presence it was also called Spanish Parade.
For 30 years until 2006 the Spanish Arch hosted the Galway City Museum which was moved to the nearest current modern building and in the past that space was also used for other purposes including hosting a school.
Close to that city's highlight was established a monument remembering the visit of Columbus donated by the city of Genoa to Galway in occasion of the 500 years commemorating the America Discover celebrated in that Italian city 1992.
The Cathedral of Galway dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption is another mandatory representing the Religious emblem of the community. It is a majestic limestone building with two impressive towers and a big green dome behind the main body of the structure.
It is a modern construction started in 1958 consecrated in 1965 but despite its young age it is a beautiful example of stylish Gothic and Renaissance revival with several special architectural details making that construction very different than the traditional Religious temples linked to Irish or British styles.
The first thing you will note regarding those notable differences is one reflected in its green dome placed at an altitude of 44,0 metres, very unusual and peculiar for the architectural canons used in the country and including the presence of those two majestic towers flanking the main facade are an example unique in the entire Nation.
The three nave ,the big rose window on the main facade and a Romanesque portico are symbols of a Medieval inspiration while along the walls on the sides you will notice a symmetrical series of high arched windows on the top and another structure was erected adjacent the domed section on the right side.
Another curious topic is that the Cathedral was built over an ancient prison considered in the past as one of the most terrible jails of all Ireland. Inside you can see some interesting contemporary frescoes and a splendid carved wooden ceiling.
Not far from in a large space lies the National University of Ireland, Galway founded in 1845 and opened for teaching in 1849, a very famous Institution which hosts the UNESCO archive of spoken Celtic languages and it is one of the three Queen's Universities of Ireland along that of Cork and Belfast.
One of its great highlights and oldest section is the Quadrangle building with the emblematic Aula Maxima designed by the architect Benjamin Keane, a perfect replica of Christ Church, renowned college of the University of Oxford.
The five colleges which composing it are the College of Science and Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Engineering and Informatics, Business, Public policy and law, Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies.
It is a modern construction started in 1958 consecrated in 1965 but despite its young age it is a beautiful example of stylish Gothic and Renaissance revival with several special architectural details making that construction very different than the traditional Religious temples linked to Irish or British styles.
The first thing you will note regarding those notable differences is one reflected in its green dome placed at an altitude of 44,0 metres, very unusual and peculiar for the architectural canons used in the country and including the presence of those two majestic towers flanking the main facade are an example unique in the entire Nation.
The three nave ,the big rose window on the main facade and a Romanesque portico are symbols of a Medieval inspiration while along the walls on the sides you will notice a symmetrical series of high arched windows on the top and another structure was erected adjacent the domed section on the right side.
Another curious topic is that the Cathedral was built over an ancient prison considered in the past as one of the most terrible jails of all Ireland. Inside you can see some interesting contemporary frescoes and a splendid carved wooden ceiling.
Not far from in a large space lies the National University of Ireland, Galway founded in 1845 and opened for teaching in 1849, a very famous Institution which hosts the UNESCO archive of spoken Celtic languages and it is one of the three Queen's Universities of Ireland along that of Cork and Belfast.
One of its great highlights and oldest section is the Quadrangle building with the emblematic Aula Maxima designed by the architect Benjamin Keane, a perfect replica of Christ Church, renowned college of the University of Oxford.
The five colleges which composing it are the College of Science and Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Engineering and Informatics, Business, Public policy and law, Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies.
The river Corrib has always played an important role in the history of the city. In ancient times the first local Celtic tribes used to live along its shore and it was the most important source for fishing and way to reach other settlements before a modern navigation activity was developed centuries later.
On that waterway you can take a look to Eglinton Canal created to join the river to the sea, a work commissioned by Lord Eglinton Lieutenant of Ireland and along its course is developed a promenade which connects the University area to the borough of Claddagh.
On the river you will notice the presence of some historic bridges as Salmon Weir Bridge dated the early 19th century which was established to connect Galway to Connemara and the rest of the other neighbourhoods arouse in the municipal boundaries including that of the Cathedral.
You can enjoy a walk on Bridge O´Brien a historic construction dated approximately the same period of the Salmon Weir Bridge. It is located in proximity Bridge Mills, a restored stone building probably erected in the Mddle Ages and today hosting a shopping centre but it is also a site devoted to celebrate entertainments and special events in summer period with people wearing clothes remembering the old times of Galway with celebrations of medieval banquets.
South of the port which is also active with a service to the Aran Islands you can visit the Claddagh, a sort of a town inside the city.In the past it was an independent centre and later it was incorporated into the municipality.
Historically that place was a sort of a planet apart, it had for many centuries the biggest community of Celtic speaking outside the walled city centre, the major part of the local fishermen and it was governed by a sort of elected ruler who covered the charges of Mayor, judge and peacemaker among the locals and it was called the "King of Claddagh". The last true "King" was Martin Oliver died in 1972, today that role is still in use but only as honorary.
That place represent in itself something special reminding many suggestive images closely linked to the former Celtic centres developed in the island and automatically it trasmits great feelings thinking to the ancient Gaelic culture simply enchanting.
Once there you can see a huge green area called Claddagh Park flanking the inhabited nucleus and you are in a point in which the river Corrib embraces the bay of Galway, a place very picturesque highlighted by the presence of picturesque coloured houses lined along the bank and a magnificent scenery highly recommended anytime but especially in an early evening at sunset.
That site apart its emblematic value is also the birthplace of that famous Claddagh ring since the 17th century with the first ring produced in its boundaries in that period and it became an iconic symbol representing something very deep and extremely significant.
That ring is a composition of a hearth, two hands and over them a crown.Those symbols represent in the old Irish tradition three fundamental sentiments such as the hearth consnsting love, the hands representing friendship while the crown means loyalty.
A very typical and old traditional phrase says : The hands are there for friendship and the heart is there for love, furthermore for loyalty throughout the year the crown is raised above.
That is something very rooted and there are many legends linked to the Claddagh ring, some of them are related to venerated Celtic divinities as the God Dagda and Goddess Anu representing the hands while the crown was identified in the figure of Beathauile which according the ancient Celts represented life in several aspects.
Other meanings are related to religion and nature as protagonists.In the first case the Trinity with father,son and the Saint Spirit and regarding the second the shamrock which is an iconic symbol of the Celtic culture related to the times of Saint Patrick.
All that is reminiscent when that beloved Saint walked with a shamrock leaf in his hand in the times when that emblematic venerated character used it to transmit the religious mystery of the trinity to the pagan Celts with something depicting a symbol nature.
One thing is certain the Claddagh ring has an immense value in the local roots and for many people it is a sort of icon for many Irish generations. There are stories of immigrants who left the motherland reaching other countries including far away as America taking it with them.
Those words, in Gaeltach language Gra Dilseacht agus Cairdeas which translated are the previous mentioned Love,Loyalty and Friendship are also the sentiments who represent an eternal union and link to the beloved country which with that phrase is a sort of infinite and eternal love for Ireland.
There are many other things to say about that symbol, it is a very extensive subject and also for all that highly interesting and suggestive in its kind. Greatly recommended is an Educational in Ireland also focused to learn those aspects very useful to learn and know more a culture which is an authentic mine of surprises anf fantastic discoveries.
Closely related to that on Quay Street you can visit Dillons Claddagh Gold Rings founded in 1750 considered the true maker of that item and also the oldest jewelry of Ireland. Next to that legendary site is situated a museum where you can learn more about that unique Irish emblem.
Immediately outside the centre on the shore of the river Corrib you can see the ruins of Menlo Castle also known as Mionloch Castle, originally the manor of Blake family one of the famed tribes of Galway.
Erected in 1569 but it was destroyed by a fire in 1910 when it was inhabited by the fourteenth Baron of the family Valentine Blake who tragically lost her invalid daughter Eleanor who died in that sad event.
A relevant aspect closely related to the Gaelic roots in the city and the county is the high number of inhabitants who still speak the pure Gaeltacht, the old language spoken by the first settlers of Ireland which in some hamlets and villages is locally more spoken than English.
That is part of a strong sense of identity never lost and trasmitted generation by generation and that tradition continues to be live more than ever in that land.Today in Ireland in total less than 90.000 people speak the classical and original Gaeltach language and a good number is present in the County of Galway while other relevant communities are in the counties of Kerry, Mayo and Cork.(If you are interested I wrote a post about the latter)
Closely related to that Galway is a seat very popular for artistic performances exclusively in Gaelic language in theTheatre Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe which hosted and hosts all the most important artists of Ireland.
On that waterway you can take a look to Eglinton Canal created to join the river to the sea, a work commissioned by Lord Eglinton Lieutenant of Ireland and along its course is developed a promenade which connects the University area to the borough of Claddagh.
On the river you will notice the presence of some historic bridges as Salmon Weir Bridge dated the early 19th century which was established to connect Galway to Connemara and the rest of the other neighbourhoods arouse in the municipal boundaries including that of the Cathedral.
You can enjoy a walk on Bridge O´Brien a historic construction dated approximately the same period of the Salmon Weir Bridge. It is located in proximity Bridge Mills, a restored stone building probably erected in the Mddle Ages and today hosting a shopping centre but it is also a site devoted to celebrate entertainments and special events in summer period with people wearing clothes remembering the old times of Galway with celebrations of medieval banquets.
South of the port which is also active with a service to the Aran Islands you can visit the Claddagh, a sort of a town inside the city.In the past it was an independent centre and later it was incorporated into the municipality.
Historically that place was a sort of a planet apart, it had for many centuries the biggest community of Celtic speaking outside the walled city centre, the major part of the local fishermen and it was governed by a sort of elected ruler who covered the charges of Mayor, judge and peacemaker among the locals and it was called the "King of Claddagh". The last true "King" was Martin Oliver died in 1972, today that role is still in use but only as honorary.
That place represent in itself something special reminding many suggestive images closely linked to the former Celtic centres developed in the island and automatically it trasmits great feelings thinking to the ancient Gaelic culture simply enchanting.
Once there you can see a huge green area called Claddagh Park flanking the inhabited nucleus and you are in a point in which the river Corrib embraces the bay of Galway, a place very picturesque highlighted by the presence of picturesque coloured houses lined along the bank and a magnificent scenery highly recommended anytime but especially in an early evening at sunset.
That site apart its emblematic value is also the birthplace of that famous Claddagh ring since the 17th century with the first ring produced in its boundaries in that period and it became an iconic symbol representing something very deep and extremely significant.
That ring is a composition of a hearth, two hands and over them a crown.Those symbols represent in the old Irish tradition three fundamental sentiments such as the hearth consnsting love, the hands representing friendship while the crown means loyalty.
A very typical and old traditional phrase says : The hands are there for friendship and the heart is there for love, furthermore for loyalty throughout the year the crown is raised above.
That is something very rooted and there are many legends linked to the Claddagh ring, some of them are related to venerated Celtic divinities as the God Dagda and Goddess Anu representing the hands while the crown was identified in the figure of Beathauile which according the ancient Celts represented life in several aspects.
Other meanings are related to religion and nature as protagonists.In the first case the Trinity with father,son and the Saint Spirit and regarding the second the shamrock which is an iconic symbol of the Celtic culture related to the times of Saint Patrick.
All that is reminiscent when that beloved Saint walked with a shamrock leaf in his hand in the times when that emblematic venerated character used it to transmit the religious mystery of the trinity to the pagan Celts with something depicting a symbol nature.
One thing is certain the Claddagh ring has an immense value in the local roots and for many people it is a sort of icon for many Irish generations. There are stories of immigrants who left the motherland reaching other countries including far away as America taking it with them.
Those words, in Gaeltach language Gra Dilseacht agus Cairdeas which translated are the previous mentioned Love,Loyalty and Friendship are also the sentiments who represent an eternal union and link to the beloved country which with that phrase is a sort of infinite and eternal love for Ireland.
There are many other things to say about that symbol, it is a very extensive subject and also for all that highly interesting and suggestive in its kind. Greatly recommended is an Educational in Ireland also focused to learn those aspects very useful to learn and know more a culture which is an authentic mine of surprises anf fantastic discoveries.
Closely related to that on Quay Street you can visit Dillons Claddagh Gold Rings founded in 1750 considered the true maker of that item and also the oldest jewelry of Ireland. Next to that legendary site is situated a museum where you can learn more about that unique Irish emblem.
Immediately outside the centre on the shore of the river Corrib you can see the ruins of Menlo Castle also known as Mionloch Castle, originally the manor of Blake family one of the famed tribes of Galway.
Erected in 1569 but it was destroyed by a fire in 1910 when it was inhabited by the fourteenth Baron of the family Valentine Blake who tragically lost her invalid daughter Eleanor who died in that sad event.
A relevant aspect closely related to the Gaelic roots in the city and the county is the high number of inhabitants who still speak the pure Gaeltacht, the old language spoken by the first settlers of Ireland which in some hamlets and villages is locally more spoken than English.
That is part of a strong sense of identity never lost and trasmitted generation by generation and that tradition continues to be live more than ever in that land.Today in Ireland in total less than 90.000 people speak the classical and original Gaeltach language and a good number is present in the County of Galway while other relevant communities are in the counties of Kerry, Mayo and Cork.(If you are interested I wrote a post about the latter)
Closely related to that Galway is a seat very popular for artistic performances exclusively in Gaelic language in theTheatre Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe which hosted and hosts all the most important artists of Ireland.
Galway is a very young city and apart its renowned University it also boasts the other famous Institute the GMIT and thanks to those Institutions is one of the centres of the country more developed in terms of study and education with almost 15,000 students.
It is a destinationis often chosen by many foreign students who find the ideal place to carry out their studies living in a place which is is not a big metropolis but offering them all they need in terms of leisure, entertainment,fun, facilities, transport as well as an International Airport.
Impressive is the wide variety of Festivals and events Galway hosts. Galway Races is a very renowned appointment devoted to horse races,an special appointment which takes place each year every July considered a Classic in Ireland for its relevant fame and prestige and highlighted by a great participation.
The Festival of Early Music of Galway is another highlight celebrated in May, it offers the opportunity to enjoy during three days medieval music ranging from medieval, Renaissance and including the Baroque period.
The famous Galway Oyster Festival is a mecca for all seafood lovers and in occasion of that special event which offers the most ample offer of that fresh sea product Galway lives in a great and vibrant atmosphere with people coming from all around the world and it is an unique occasion to live something closely related to the seafaring spirit of that enchanting city tasting those delectable delights.
That festival takes place in September since 1954 ,it is considered among the most important in Ireland and very well known in Europe also for the participation of important artists and personalities who wants to live the vibrant and lively atmosphere which conquered and conquers a multitude of people.
Galway Arts Festival for Children in October and Cuirt International Festival of Literature which takes place in April are other important events making that city a very very attractive destination also for its ample cultural calendar.
The famous Galway Oyster Festival is a mecca for all seafood lovers and in occasion of that special event which offers the most ample offer of that fresh sea product Galway lives in a great and vibrant atmosphere with people coming from all around the world and it is an unique occasion to live something closely related to the seafaring spirit of that enchanting city tasting those delectable delights.
That festival takes place in September since 1954 ,it is considered among the most important in Ireland and very well known in Europe also for the participation of important artists and personalities who wants to live the vibrant and lively atmosphere which conquered and conquers a multitude of people.
Galway Arts Festival for Children in October and Cuirt International Festival of Literature which takes place in April are other important events making that city a very very attractive destination also for its ample cultural calendar.
About local gastronomy the local cuisine offers among the best gastronomic products of the country and a very rich culinary art highly appreciated. Oysters and salmon for history and loyal to the oldest traditions are always fresh and prepared in many styles.
Grilled and fried fish are always present in pole position also with the famous Irish Fish & Chips using the best cod and haddock.Excellent is also the local Sea bass considered for quality and taste among the best in Europe
The sublime Scampi is another gastronomic icon boasting a superb reputation and you can try the famous Cockle Soup, a speciality in which the cockles are prepared with cream and milk seasoned with by parsley and adding celery.
Also meat has several delicious plates to offer as the delectable Lamb Soup and with the same kind of meat is prepared the emblematic Irish Stew with onions, different vegetables and potatoes. Another common dish is he Bacon Broth, a minestrone containing barley and smoked bacon .
The Roast Turkey is also of notable quality accompanied by vegetables and roast potatoes and furthermore very popular is the traditional Bacon and Cabbage often served in different places and for the beef lovers do not miss the tastefully Spiced Beef seasoned with pepper, salt, cinnamon, chilli and other spices.
Beer in Ireland has a long and noble tradition with famed brands such as Guinness, Guinness,Murphy´s ,Beamish,Kilkenny and the local Hooker next many others are of course great to accompany the tastefully cuisine which offers an ample culinary panorama all to enjoy during your stay.
Galway International Airport,the Aerophort Na Gallimhe is situated approximately 10,0 kilometres north of the city. It provides International Flights to London,Dublin,Edinburgh and Manchester among others. From there in a very short time you can reach the centre and starting to enjoy the beauty of that enchanting harbour city of Ireland.
That centre is a must if you are planning to visit that magic country, a great destination, smaller than Dublin,Cork and Limerick but in its kind absolutely unique and it has nothing to envy to its biggest sisters.
Definitely a splendid place to enjoy metre by metre,a very lively site which with its superb appeal immediately bewitches every visitor for the indelible pages of significant history it wrote with a lot of narrate and visible in every corner of its urban environment.
Galway boasts a unique, captivating charm conquering everybody at first sight, a marvel which always transmits the desire to plan to return there soon repeating with immense pleasure an unforgettable experience once again.
Definitely a splendid place to enjoy metre by metre,a very lively site which with its superb appeal immediately bewitches every visitor for the indelible pages of significant history it wrote with a lot of narrate and visible in every corner of its urban environment.
Galway boasts a unique, captivating charm conquering everybody at first sight, a marvel which always transmits the desire to plan to return there soon repeating with immense pleasure an unforgettable experience once again.
Francesco Mari
Recommended Accommodations in Galway
The G Hotel Galway
Park House Hotel
Menlo Park Hotel
Galway Bay Hotel
The House Hotel
Forster Court Hotel
Useful links
www.galway.net
www.irishtourist.com/galway
www.discoverireland.ie/Places-To-Go/Galway
blog.galwaytourism.ie
www.irishtourist.com/galway
www.discoverireland.ie/Places-To-Go/Galway
blog.galwaytourism.ie
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