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Galway City


Galway City, the cultural capital of Ireland, the Venice of the West and much more.

The origin of Galway is uncertain. However, the ancient Irish called foreigners ‘na Gall’, hence the suggestion that Galway was ‘the place of foreigners’.
 
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.



Padraig O'Conaire

Their names were :
Athy, Blake, Bodkin, Browne, Darcy, Deane, ffont, French, Joyce, Kirwan, Lynch, Martin, Morris, and Skerritt. 
Members of these families served as Burgesses, and as Mayors of Galway up to the capture of Galway by a Cromwellian army in 1652.

Tourist Attractions

Eyre Square (renamed John F Kennedy Park) ; an open green park where on can relax or view the many attractions, including ;

  • Statue of Paraic O’Connaire ; erected in 1935 in memory of the writer who travelled the roads with his horse and cart. Best remembered for M’asal Beag Dubh. Died 1928.

  • Cannons ; These cannons were presented to the Connaught Rangers at the end of the Crimean War 1854-1856. The Rangers had played a major part in the Alma Valley Battles in 1854.

  • The Fountain ;. built in 1984, consists of a copper-coloured representation of the sails of the Galway Hooker. This was a traditional fishing boat, unique to Galway.

The Spanish Arch ;built in 1584 and located on the banks of the Corrib, an extension of the city walls that protected the quay

City Museum ; situated into one of its walls of the Spanish Arch, displays
antiques and implements 
that were used in Galway many years ago

Lynch's Castle ; a fine stone building and a townhouse which dates back to the 14th century. Mayor Lynch, 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. This jail was closed in 1939 and known for its cruel treatment of prisoners..

Collegiate Church of St Nicholas of Myra, establishes as a collegiate church in 1484, with its curious pyramidal spire, is Ireland's biggest medieval parish church. It contains many unique features such as the tomb of the famous

National University of Galway, established as one of the Queens' Colleges in Ireland in 1845 and it officially opened in 1849. The oldest and prettiest part of the college (the "Quadrangle") is a replica of the corresponding building at Oxford University.

Interesting Tourist Shops

Peacockes Craft Shop
Located at Maam Cross, the Crossroads of Connemara ; sells a comprehensive 
range of Irish craft products.

The Galway Crystal Factory Shop

Located at  Dublin Road, Galway City ; sells locally manufactured crystal products.
Recognised as a world leader in crystal glass products.
In 1997, The Galway Irish Crystal Heritage Centre was awarded the prestigious 
Irish American Cultural Institute Heritage Award.

Galway Bay Gifts (aka - Assets Gifts)
Located at 21A High St, in the heart of Galway City.
Offer a wide range of Irish Novelty items, Fun Gifts, Jewelry. While ostensibly a tourist 
shop you will find lots to suit your home grown shopper also. They like shoppers to 
leave with a smile and have lots of fun and funky stuff on the shelves.

Standún
Coast Road, An Spidéal (Spiddal),Co. Galway.
 
Established over 50 years ago, this family-run store is a one-stop source for quality Irish 
products — Aran sweaters, woollens, tweeds, crystal, pottery, china, linens, 
and jewelry including the famous Claddagh ring.

O'Maille - Quality Knitwear

O'Máille's is a name that has long been synonymous with quality knitwear and tailored clothes for men and women. Established in 1938, our family-owned business is located in Galway City, in the heart of the West of Ireland, home of the world-famous Aran Sweater.

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