County Galway
Galway City
Aran Islands
Connemara
Galway City
Situated on the west coast of Ireland in the second largest county in Ireland, Galway City's origin is uncertain. However, the ancient Irish called foreigners 'na Gall', hence the suggestion that Galway was 'the place of foreigner'.
After the Anglo-Norman invasion in the 13th century the power of the city was divulged to 14 'Tribes', affluent families of English descent, and the city became known famously as the 'City of the Tribes.
You will find a multitude of places to go, things to see and do, and friendly people to meet. Galway city has a large student population, which brings a young, vibrant atmosphere to the pubs, clubs, restaurant, and shops on its busy and colorful streets. The city is full of artistic talent, culture, history, and music. Many international artists have moved to the Galway region, inspired by the rugged landscape, the sea, and the clear light.
Galway City attractions include:
Eyre Square
In the centre of Eyre Square is Kennedy Park, an open green park where you can relax or view the many attractions including the Statue of Pádraic O'Conaire, erected in 1935 in memory of the writer who traveled the roads with his horse and cart. Also in the square are cannons presented to the Connaught Rangers at the end of the Crimean War (dating 1854-1856. The Rangers had played a major part in the Alma Valley Battles in 1854. Of special interest is the Fountain, built in 1984, consisting of a copper-colored representation of the sails of the Galway Hooker, a traditional fishing boat unique to Galway.
The Spanish Arch
Built in 1584 and located on the banks of the Corrib, the Spanish Arch appears an extension of the city walls protecting the quay, through which ships may have unloaded their goods.
City Museum
A museum situated into one of the walls of the Spanish Arch displays antiques and implements that were used in Galway in times past.
Lynch's Castle
A fine stone building and a townhouse dating back to the 14th century. Mayor Lynch was reputed to have hanged his son for murder.
The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven
Opened in 1965 and built on the site of the former county jail, closed in 1939 and known for its cruel treatment of prisoners.
Aran Islands
The mystical Aran Islands, situated in the middle of Galway Bay, are reached by ferry boat. The rugged, natural beauty along with thatch-roofed stone cottages that dot the islands provide a splendid example of Celtic and early Christian heritage and gives visitors an impression of having traveled back in time.
The islands are Inishmore, the largest, Inishmaan and Inisheer being the smallest. With Gaelic still the first language of the islanders, a true feel for older Ireland is to be found. Throughout the islands are ruins of early Christian monasteries and fortifications, the best known being Dun Aengus, dating back over 2000 years, and many churches.
The ruins of the House of Saint Edna, the most important medieval religious settlement on Inishmore, can still be seen. Fishing is still the main industry on the islands and in many cases the methods of the fishermen's ancestors are still used. The lives of these fishermen were the subject of the John M. Synge 1904 play, 'Riders to the Sea'.