Galway is a medieval city on the western sea-board of Ireland and is known to be a great destination you must visit if you are looking for a great time. It is a small and intimate city but its personality is anything but small.
Galway came onto the world map after an 1121 castle was captured by Richard de Burgo in 1232. It was in this year that Galway started flourishing. Even today it remains a city of wealth and prosperity; thanks to their trade ties with Spain. Here are some of the main points of interest in Galway.
Eyre Square
Eyre square is the centre of Galway and the perfect place from where you can start exploring the city. Eyre Square dates back to the 18th century and today is best known for the memorial of John F. Kennedy, Former President of USA, who was of Irish decent. Another great monument on Eyre Street is that of Ireland’s beloved poet Pádraic O’Conaire (1882-1923). It depicts him sitting on a rock. On the west of the square, there is a shopping centre which is a popular meeting place. If you happen to hang out here in the evenings, you may catch some street performers in action.
St. Nicholas’ Church
St. Nicholas’ Church is a 14th century church on Market Street. Although it has been altered over the years, it is still well preserved. Dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra or Santa Claus who was the Patron saint of Mariners and children, this church boasts of Gargoyles on its exterior; something rarely seen in the country. It has been visited by many famous people over many centuries including Christopher Columbus who is said to have worshipped here in 1477.
Lynch’s Castle
Lyn’s castle is a beautiful castle built in the 14th century and one of the finest in the country, also on Market Street. Unfortunately, this fine castle has been converted into a bank. Thankfully, its external structure is well preserved and makes it a sight worth seeing, if only for fifteen minutes. The castle belongs to the Lynch family, the most powerful tribe in Galway. On the facade, there are bears and gargoyles and the arm coats of Tudor Monarch Henry VIII, the noble members of the Kildare’s Fitzgerald family and the Lynches.
Galway Cathedral
Overlooking the Corrib River and at half a mile’s distance from St. Nicholas’ church is the Galway Cathedral. The Cathedral was built in 1950 and is the youngest of all the Grand Stone Cathedrals in Europe. J.J. Robinson designed this Cathedral blending various styles such as the Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque. There is also a superb art collection within the Cathedral which includes Patrick Pollen’s large Crucifixion mosaic, Statue of the Virgin Mary by Imogen Stuart and some beautiful rose windows.
The Aran Islands
The Aran Island should certainly be on your agenda of sights to see in Ireland. The islands are located just off the Galway coast and are home to some of best tourist attractions in the country, including an outdoor museum, historically significant Celtic churches, the astonishing Dun Aonghasa and of course the Aran Cliffs; the official venue for the cliff diving contests in Ireland. The Islands are great place to get away from the hustling city life in search of some peace and quiet. Regular ferries run between the mainland and the islands.
Clarinbridge
At a distance of just 17 kilometres on the south of the city, lies the picturesque Clarinbridge village. It is Located on the mouth of River Clarin and at the end of the Dunbulcaun Bay. Famed for the annual Oyster festival held in the village, Calrinbridge is voted as one of the most beautiful villages in Ireland, year after year. The Oyster Festival is a tradition that has been kept alive since 1954 and features live music and dancing shows and an annual gala ball.
The Burren
Famous for its spectacular rock formations, the Burren in Clare County is just 40 minutes away from the Clarinbridge village. The drive from Clarinbridge to Burren is spectacular. Though it is barren, the Burren is a magical, tranquil place. Apart from its unique rock formations, it is also known for its impressive diversity of flora and fauna. The Celtic High Cross of Kilfenora is an important archaeological sight here. The Corcomroe Abbey in the area is well preserved and a popular tourist attraction.
The Cliffs of Moher
Any trip to Ireland is incomplete without a visit to the Cliffs of Moher. These astonishing impressive and staggeringly stunning cliffs are located along the coast of the Atlantic at Clare County. They are 203 meters high and stretch up to eight kilometres. On a good weather day you can also see the Galway Bay and the Aran Islands from the cliff. The best spot to get an incredible view is near the O’Brien’s Tower. Tours to the cliff are usually fully booked and tend to get crowded, but once you arrive at the destination, you are transported into a different realm altogether, where you can effortlessly block the endless chatter in the background.
Galway has a youth population coupled with a Bohemian spirit. It is indeed a charming city. The best way to enjoy the city is to go strolling on the beautiful city lanes and soak in its atmosphere. There is just so much to do in Galway that you will never be bored.
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