Visit Ireland - About Ireland: County Guide Interactive Map West The West stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the banks of the River Shannon, embracing Counties Galway, Mayo, and Roscommon. It is a rugged terrain of rock and stone, inlets and coves along the coastline, and many golden beaches. There are mountain ranges and woodlands of rowan, beech, sycamore, and wild rhododendrons. The Lough's (lakes) Corrib, Mask, and Conn divide the counties. Throughout the region there are prehistoric sties, monasteries, fortifications, and castles. Each county offers a variety of attractions, accommodations, sport activities, and a variety of entertainment and festivals, especially in the summer. COUNTY GALWAY County Galway, The City of Tribes, (in Irish Gaillimh). In ancient times there were fourteen families who controlled Galway. They were known as the Tribes of Galway. Galway is situated on the River Corrib. It was a thriving Anglo-Norman city because of the trade with Europe, especially France and Spain. The Spanish influence dominated the tribes, which was evident in the architecture, as with the Spanish Arch built in 1584.

Today Galway City is a growing and thriving university city, complemented by a high technology industry. The city offers the arts in theatre, museums, churches, and there is music everywhere from buskers in the streets to music in the pubs. A short five-minute drive from the city is the Galway Irish Crystal Heritage Centre. In the Hall of Tribes you learn of the merchants, seafarers, and artists who made up the original 14 tribes. You will learn about Claddagh Village and the famous claddagh ring, you also learn the story of the glass craft, showing the craftspeople at work. There is a showroom and restaurant available. The western part of Galway is a 'An Ghaeltacht', the Gaeltacht areas, meaning the first language is Irish. The people speak, work, and think in a language that has unbroken links with pre-conquest Gaelic Ireland and further back in time. You will miss so much if you just pass through these areas. Take the coast road through Bearna to Carna, through An Spideal (Spiddal), An Cheathru Rua (Carraroe) and Sraith Salach (Recess).

There are hidden islands linked by bridges and causeways, Leitir Moir (Lettermore), Leitir Meallain (Lettermullen) and Garumna (Gorumna). West of Galway City lies the wild and beautiful Connemara (in Irish Croi an chultuir) area, bounded on the west by the Atlantic Ocean and Lough Corrib on the east. Many of the ancient Irish traditions and customs are preserved and savored with the Gaelic-speaking people. The most dominant feature of Connemara is the cluster of the Twelve Bens Mountain Range, also called the Twelve Pins Mountain Range with Benbaun, Bencullagh, Benbrack and Muckanaght. The mountain range offers spectacular high-level walking, overlooking hundreds of small lakes, wild bogs, and a rugged coastline. Gorgeous scenery is available at Connemara National Park, covering 2000 hectares of mountains, bogs and heaths, and grasslands. Glanmore (large glen) forms the centre of the park and 10,000 years are displayed at the visitor center, with 3D models and displays.

Much of the present park lands formed part of the Kylemore Abbey Estate and the Letterfrack Industrial School. Many remains of human presence can be seen in the park. The oldest are megalithic court tombs, some 4000 years old. Ruined houses and old walls are remains of a population of times past. Kylemore Abbey, built in 1868, is home to the Irish Benedictine Nuns and a secondary school. Some activities available in Connemara are regattas at coastal villages with the Hookers and Curraghs, and other water sports. Galway's traditional fishing vessel is known as The Hooker. The Curragh is a long, narrow canoe like boat, sometimes made of oiled animal skins, over a wooden frame. Throughout the county of Galway there is deep sea fishing, coarse and pike fishing, cruising, other water sports, horse racing, horse riding, golfing on championship courses and less challenging courses, motor sports, greyhound racing, cycling and a ferry trip to the Aran Islands, or watching the sun go down on Galway Bay.

THE ISLANDS The Aran Islands lie at the mouth of Galway Bay, a barren landscape of exposed limestone terraces ending in the shear three hundred foot Atlantic Cliffs. The Celtic cliff-edge fortress of Dun Aengus is of world importance. The cliffs and seas are home to gannets, choughs, otters, dolphins, and whales. The rocky crag provides a rich habitat for over 400 wild plants and flowers. The Aran Islands consist of three islands, Inis Oirr, Inis Meain, and Inis Moir. Inis Moir, also known as Inishmore, means Big Island. With a population of around 900 people, it is eight miles long and two miles wide. Ancient forts include Dun Aengus, the most famous, built on the edge of a sheer southern cliff. It has a defense forest of sharp stone spikes. Two smaller forts are Dun Eochla and Dun Duchathair. There are many ruins of stone churches on the island. Inis Meain is also known as Inishmaan, and means Middle Island.

The island is three miles by two miles, with fields bordered by high dry stonewalls and marked by vast sheets of limestone rock. The island peaks at 300 feet and a series of giant terraces slope down to Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This is a Gaelic speaking population. The people make a living from farming and fishing. On the island's highest point is Dun Chunchuir, a fort built without mortar and with intricate stone patterns. It is thought to have been built between the 1st and 6th Centuries AD. A smaller stone fort is at Dun Fearbhai, above the boat slip and old pier at Baile an Mhothair. An Aran sweater factory, museum, guesthouses, and a pub are all on the island. Inis Oirr is also known as Inisheer, meaning Little Island. It is 27 miles from Galway, covers 1,400 acres, and has a population of about 300. This island is an outcrop of the Burren landscape, consisting of bare limestone that is used for the many cottages, stonewalls, roads, and pathways around the island.

The Gaelic-speaking Island is a haven for birdwatchers and those interested in fauna and flora. The main attractions are An Loch Mor, a lake covering 16 acres with wildfowl. Dun Formna and O'Brien's Castle date from the 14th Century. There is also a holy well, Tobar E'inne. Inishbofin is one of the last bastions of civilization before America. It is a 40-minute ferry ride from the shores of Galway, and is five miles long by two miles wide. Noted for its splendid scenery and traditional music, there are only 180 people living on the island. There are bed & breakfast and hotel accommodations available. Enjoy good sessions in the pub, around the fireplace with a good pint. COUNTY MAYO County Mayo has a natural unspoiled environment where the native folk have enjoyed their harmony in nature for over 5,000 years. The county spans more than 5,300 kilometers. It stretches from Lough Corrib, and the long fjord of Killary Harbor in the south, to Killala Bay and Erris in the north.

Continuing from Achill Island, Clew Bay, and the Mullet Peninsula, in the west, to the counties of Sligo and Roscommon in the east. The landscape of Mayo is bewitchingly beautiful. It is flat terrain in the east. There are island lakes, Lough Conn, Cullin, Carra, and Mask, and quartzite peaks along the Atlantic coast. The rugged cliffs are interspersed with flat sandy beaches. The bogs in the north contrast with the mountains in the south. Special places of historical interest include Knock Marian Shrine and Pilgrimage Centre, where the Blessed Mother appeared over 150 years ago. Croagh Patrick is the mountain where St. Patrick prayed and fasted for the 40 days of Lent. It is a place of pilgrimage. On the last Sunday in July many people climb the mountain in bare feet as a means of sacrifice. At the foot of Croagh Patrick is the National Famine Memorial. Ceide Fields is an extensive Stone Age enclosed farmland site covering 24 square miles. It has a visitor centre located in North Mayo. The Ceide Fields are older than the Egyptian Pyramids.

The Granuaile Centre explores the legends and history of Grace O'Malley, the Pirate Queen of Mayo, and a fiery and passionate woman whose goal was to rid her country of the invaders. There are quite a few heritage and visitors centres throughout the county. Visiting them is an excellent way to learn Mayo's history. Ballina, in the Moy Valley, is the largest city in Mayo and has one of the oldest histories with numerous megalithic tombs to visit. For a fisherman, the River Moy is ideal for its abundance of salmon and trout. There are a myriad of activities available throughout Mayo including game and sea fishing, diving, sailing, horse riding, and 18-hole and 9-hole championship golf courses. There are walking trails and adventure centres. Westport is situated on the shores of Clew Bay. The heritage town is the largest coastal town in Mayo. Many excellent beaches and water sports are located here. Sailing and yachting are available. Westport offers locally made knitwear and pottery, and sponsors an arts festival each September. THE ISLANDS Achill Island is joined to the mainland by a causeway. The island has splendid cliff scenery, drives and walks, very good beaches, and sea and shore fishing.

The mountains around the coast provide vantage points to enjoy the sea and landscape. This island has a thriving community, and offers a variety of accommodations, attractions, gorgeous scenery, and entertainment, or solitude, if you choose. Clare Island is a part of Clew Bay. The 17th Century Grace O'Malley resided here and ruled the lands around Clew Bay. Good diving is available here, as well as excellent sea fishing. There are various archaeological sites and superb cliff scenery. Other Islands include Inishturk and Inishbiggle. COUNTY ROSCOMMON County Roscommon is an inland county in the west of Ireland, with fertile woodlands, ecclesiastical ruins, lakes and rivers, lovely villages, and lively market towns. The chief towns are Roscommon, Strokestown, Boyle, Elphin, Loughlynn, Ballaghadereen, Castlerea, and Knockcroghery. The county offers many game, coarse, and pike fishing centres, and cruising on Carrick-on-Shannon. Several towns offer horse riding, walking trails, bird watching, and golfing.

Roscommon, the town, is home to 13th Century Roscommon Castle that had seen many owners until it was destroyed at the Battle of Aughrim in the 17th Century, now a ruin. Strokestown is most noted for the Famine Museum at Strokestown Park House. It tells the story of the consecutive English laws enacted to suppress and destroy Irish trade and manufacturing. When the Great Hunger occurred from 1845 to 1850, there was nothing left for the Irish except death or emigration. Castlerea is the ancestral land of the O'Connor Clan, who gave 11 high kings to Ireland. , With over 10,000 manuscripts, the family history is archived at Clonalis House starting from 75AD. Athlone is situated on the River Shannon in the Centre of Ireland and one of the fastest growing towns. It is estimated that because of its unprecedented growth rate, it will become Ireland's next City. Visit the Athlone Central Information Services . COUNTY CLARE County Clare is a year round destination offering many natural wonders within the county.

It is an ideal walking and fishing area, with hundreds of small lakes and streams with brown trout and coarse fish, and numerous water sports. This is an area with a wealth of traditional music, dance, and drama. In North Clare is the Burren, a lunar landscape of terraced glaciated limestone, covering over 200 miles. In Ballyvaughan is the Alwee Caves, caverns of stalactites, stalagmites, and a waterfall. Located in Clare are the famous Cliffs of Moher, 700 feet above the sea, with a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean. O'Brien's Tower was constructed in the 19th Century as a viewing point for the cliffs. There is Knappogue Castle, built in 1467 by Sean MacNamara, which offers a medieval banquet and features 'Women in Irish History'. The town of Doolin boasts the magic of the music. From here you can take a short ferry trip to the Aran Islands. Lisdoonvarna hosts the Matchmaking Festival each September. Mid Clare offers Bunratty Folk Park, a 19th Century village with a living museum and a teashop.

The village people are dressed in period costume and a Ceili (Kay Lee) which is a gathering of people for music, fun and dance, takes place each evening. Bunratty Castle, built in the 15th Century, offers a Medieval Banquet, with traditional music and dance as the featured entertainment. Tour the Craggaunowen Bronze Age Project, a prehistoric park depicting ancient Celtic life. Ennis, the capital of Clare, is another wonderful town for traditional music. There are numerous sites to explore. The counties of Ireland – Antrim to Dublin – introduction. ► Counties M–W The counties of Ireland were created between the late 12th century, when the Anglo Normans invaded, and the early 17th century, and tend to follow the ancient lines drawn between powerful clan families. Dublin was the first county to be set up with a sheriff empowered with legal, military and administrative controls. From that point, the process of creating the counties of Ireland spread out mainly eastwards and did not reach the north until the early 1600s. Antrim and Down were the first Ulster counties created, with the rest remaining 'un-shired' until about 1585.

It was Wicklow, however, that in 1606 became the very last of the counties of Ireland to be formed. Some of the names of the counties of Ireland have changed over the years. You may well encounter these alternative names when you are looking at historical and genealogical documents. You may come across: Caterlaugh or Caterlagh, rather than County Carlow, on medieval maps, County Coleraine, which became County Derry, which is also known as County Londonderry (the names are interchangeable), Queen's County (not County Queens), which is now County Laois and sometimes written as Leix, and King's County (not County Kings), which is now County Offaly. There also used to be the counties of Nether Tyrone and Upper Tyrone which were merged to become simply County Tyrone, and, until 1606, the county of Desmond which was shared between Cork and Kerry. Use the Quick Links above for details of the counties of Ireland beginning with letters F to Z, Antrim In Irish, the county is called Aon troim, meaning Solitary place.

It is not so solitary these days, with a population density of 199/km2, second only to Dublin. Its spectacular Causeway Coast, a UNESCO Heritage Site, is a stawart of the Irish tourism industry. It is situated in the province of Ulster and is part of Northern Ireland (UK). In land area, it is the 9th largest of the thirty-two traditional counties of Ireland but it is second only to County Dublin in terms of size of population. Its main towns are Antrim, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Belfast, Carrickfergus and Lisburn, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant's Causeway, is on its north coast. There are two nicknames for folks from Antrim (both usually restricted to sporting references): the Glensmen and the Saffrons. Linen manufacturing was once an important industry in Antrim and vast swathes of flax were cultivated in the countryside.

(More about Irish Linen and the flax plant .) Antrim's most common surnames in 1890 were Smith, Johnston, Stewart, Wilson, Thompson, O·Neill, Campbell, Moore, Bell, Robinson, Millar, Brown, Boyd, Scott and Graham. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in Antrim in 1861. Armagh In Irish, the county is called Árd Mhacha, meaning Macha's Hill. It is situated in the province of Ulster and is part of Northern Ireland (UK). Its main centres of population are Armagh, Lurgan and Portadown and it is known as both the Orchard County and the Cathedral County, the latter on account of it having two magnificent cathedrals, both called St Patrick's, facing one another on rival hilltops in Armagh City. One is Protestant, the other Roman Catholic. Surnames associated with Armagh, based on 1890 records, include Murphy, Hughes, Wilson, Campbell, O'Hare, Smith, McCann and Donnelly.

Armagh was the last of the counties of Ireland to be surveyed by Richard Griffith (in 1864) for his Primary Valuation. Carlow Browne's Hill Dolmen In Irish, the county is called Ceatharlach, meaning Four Lakes, and it is the second smallest of the counties of Ireland (the smallest is Louth). Located in the province of Leinster, its main towns are Carlow and Bagenalstown. Both are on the River Barrow. For this reason, people from County Carlow are often referred to as Barrowsiders. They have a few other nicknames, too, among them the Fighting Cocks and the Scallion Eaters. You may see Carlow referred to as Caterlaugh or Caterlagh on some antique maps. Just outside Carlow Town is Browne's Hill Dolmen, a 5,000-year-old portal tomb that has the biggest capstone in Europe, weighing in at over 100 tons. This is the reason for yet another nickname: the Dolmen County. Surnames associated with County Carlow, based on 1890 records, include Murphy, Byrne, Doyle, Nolan and Neill.

Griffith's Valuation was carried out in Carlow in 1852-3. Cavan In Irish, the county is called Cabhán, meaning a Hollow. The source of the River Shannon and a good scattering of lakes lie within its landlocked borders. Although in the province of Ulster, Cavan is one of the three counties of Ireland (the others are Donegal and Monaghan) separated from the rest of its province since 1921 when the island was split between Northern Ireland (UK) and the Republic. Cavan is in the Republic and its inhabitants are known by the sporting nickname of the Blues Brothers. The county is also referred to as the Lakes County. The main settlement in this sparsely populated county is Cavan town, once the stronghold of the O'Reillys who ruled the ancient kingdom of East Breffni. Based on 1890 records, the most common surnames in County Cavan include Reilly, Smith, Brady, Lynch, McCabe, Clarke, Farrelly, Maguire, Sheridan and Galligan. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in Cavan in 1856-7.

Clare In Irish, the county is called Clar, meaning a level piece of land). Clare is one of the west coast counties of Ireland and is in the province of Munster. Its main town is Ennis, a popular destination for tourists hoping to catch an Irish music session. The county had a population of just over 100,000 in 2002, less than two-fifths what it was in 1831. Among its outstanding geological features are the Burren, Europe's largest area of limestone pavement, and the Cliffs of Moher. The latter is one of the main tourist attractions of Ireland and many visitors rent Irish cottages on a self-catering basis for a week or two to fully explore one of the most unusual and evocative counties of Ireland. It is known as the Banner County, on account of the banners displayed at Daniel O'Connell's so-called Monster Meetings in Clare in support of Catholic Emancipation in 1828.

Surnames associated with County Clare, based on 1890 records, include McMahon, McNamara, Moloney, O'Brien, McInerney, Kelly, Keane, Murphy, Griffin, Halloran and Ryan. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in Clare in 1855. Cork Youghal's Clock Gate In Irish, the county is called Corcaigh, meaning Marsh. Located in the far south west of the island, it is the largest of all the counties of Ireland, both north and south, and is in the province of Munster. Its nickname is the Rebel County (due to its history of fighting for independence) and its red and white checkered flag is known as the Blood and Bandage. Folk from Cork City, which sits on the River Lee, are known as Leesiders. The county town is Cork and it was from its port that many hundreds of emigrants set sail for America. The port was recorded as Queenstown on ship manifestos but is now known as Cobh (pronounced Cove).

Surnames associated with County Cork, based on 1890 records, include Sullivan, Murphy, McCarthy, Mahoney, Donovan, Walsh, O'Brien, Callaghan, Leary, Crowley, Collins, Driscoll, Connell, Barry, Cronin, Buckley, and Daly. Richard Griffiths carried out his Valuation survey in 1851-53. Derry In Irish, the county is called Doire, meaning Oak Wood, and explains why Derry is known as the Oak-leaf County. It is also known as Londonderry. The terms, for both the county and its main town, are interchangeable. It used to be known as County Coleraine. Derry is in the province of Ulster and is part of Northern Ireland (UK). Among its principal towns are Derry/Londonderry (whose encircling walls were built in 1613), Coleraine, Magherafelt and Ballymoney. Magilligan Strand is Ireland's longest beach (10km/6m).

The county's most common surnames, based on 1890 records, include Doherty, McLaughlin, Kelly, Bradley, Brown, McCloskey, Campbell, Mullan, Smith, O'Neill and Kane. Derry was surveyed by Richard Griffith for his valuation in 1858-9. Donegal In Irish, the county is called Dún na nGall, meaning Fortress of the foreigners. It is one of the three Ulster province counties within the Republic and its principal town is Letterkenny. Inishtrahull Island, 7km from the mainland, is the most northerly point of Ireland. Donegal has two nicknames: O'Donnell County, in reference to the region's medieval lords, and the Forgotten County, on account of its remoteness from the rest of the Republic. People from Donegal are sometimes referred to as Herring Gutters. Donegal is famous as the home of Irish tweed, and its westerly regions are part of the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking areas).

Surnames associated with County Donegal, based on 1890 records, include Gallagher, Doherty, Boyle, O'Donnell, McLaughlin, Sweeney, Ward, Kelly, McGinely, McFadden, McGowan, Duffy and Campbell. Griffith's Valuation was carried out in 1857. If you've got Donegal ancestors, be sure to check out Donegal Genealogy , a free website run by Lindel Buckley and full to the brim with links to Donegal sources. Down Mount Stewart House & Gardens, County Down In Irish, the county is called Dún, meaning Fortress. It is in Ulster province and is part of Northern Ireland (UK). Its principal towns are Banbridge and Newry (where, in 1578, the first Protestant church in Ireland was built). Although many counties of Ireland have associations with St Patrick, Down has the deepest connections with the saint as this was where he landed in AD432 and first preached to the locals. It is known as the Mourne County, in reference to the stirring scenery of the Mourne Mountains.

The county's most frequently occuring surnames, according to an 1890 survey, were Thompson, Smith, Campbell, Patterson, Martin, Wilson, Graham, Johnston and Murray . Richard Griffith surveyed Down for his Valuation in 1863-4. Dublin Dublin is in the province of Leinster and home to the sprawling capital city where more than a quarter of the Republic's population now lives. The city that was to become this capital was first settled by Celts in AD140 and became a Viking base in AD860. The former settlement was known as Ath Cliath, meaning Hurdle Ford; this is the Irish language name for the city. The Viking settlement was known as An Dubh Linn, meaning Black Pool of water; the anglicised version of this name is Dublin. The city was made the island's capital by the invading Anglo-Normans in 1204. Together with some surrounding land, it was long known as the Pale (this is where the phrase 'beyond the pale' originates). Today the city is the main point of arrival for visitors on the ferries from Wales and England. The Republic's main airport lies to the north of the city.

Dubliners have a number of nicknames, among them the Dubs, the Metropolitans, the Jacks, the Liffeysiders and (not so politely) the Jackeens. Surnames associated with County Dublin, based on 1890 records, include Byrne, Kelly, Doyle, Murphy, Smith, O'Brien, Kavanagh, Dunne, O'Neill, Rieilly, NOlan, Connor, Walsh and Farrell. In 1848-51, County Dublin became the first of the counties of Ireland to be surveyed by Richard Griffith for his Valuation. Related Pages Ireland's most popular counties and what to visit (PHOTOS) | IrishCentral.com Ireland's most popular counties and what to visit (PHOTOS) IrishCentral Staff / Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare The following counties are among the most widely visited in Ireland . With their lively arts and culture attractions it's not hard to see why. Here are IrishCentral's guide and recommendations. COUNTY ANTRIM Belfast City (in Irish, Béal Feirste) is the capital of Northern Ireland and is located in County Antrim, one of Ireland's most visited counties.

History and politics have always played a major role in the fabric of Belfast, and perhaps for that reason its citizens are among the most vivid and witty people you'll ever meet. 13 A nighttime view of Belfast City. Unsurprisingly, Belfast is rich in culture, art, music, dance, sports, shopping, attractions and historical sites. City Hall, one of the main seats of power, is located on Donegall Square and dominates the area with its magnificent classical renaissance-style architecture and Italian marble interior. It was completed in 1903. The Linen Hall Library, also located on Donegall Square, was established in 1788. It houses an Irish collection of over 20,000 volumes and a Robert Burns collection. Visit and you'll be keeping company with many noted Irish authors. The Crown Liquor Saloon is the most famous pub in Belfast and, frankly, one of the most beautiful pubs in the world. Featuring Victorian architecture, with the outside covered in thousands of colorful tiles, the inside decor has stained and painted glass, carved oak screens and mahogany furniture. Don't miss it.

The Botanic Gardens, the rose gardens and herbaceous borders were established in 1920 and are unmissable. Two greenhouses dominate the gardens and the Palm House has a conservatory containing tropical plants like coffee, sugar, and banana plants. The Tropical Ravine has a high walkway that provides a great viewpoint. Overlooking the city, Belfast Castle was built in 1870 and was the former home of the Donegall family, who gave the main square in the city center its name. The castle offers a spectacular view of the city. There is also a heritage center, antique shop, and children's play area on the premise. COUNTY CLARE County Clare in the Republic of Ireland is steeped in history, and it offers beautiful seascapes, landscapes, lakes, cliffs, caves and music. Highlights include The Burren (an ancient, perfectly preserved landscape), the Cliffs of Moher (700 foot high cliffs facing the wild Atlantic), and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park (an impressive castle dating from the early Middle Ages). 13 Scientists have uncovered the mystery of the moving rocks on the rugged shoreline of the Aran Islands.

The Burren is over 500 square miles of limestone located in the northwest corner of County Clare. The area is a haven for botanists and ecologists because of the unique flora and rock. The ground surface is a floor of gray rock with long parallel grooves, known as grykes. There is an amazing variety of flora with Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean plants growing in spring and summer. For that reason there's also an amazing range of color in the flowers, ferns and mosses. Alwee Caves were discovered in the 1940s. There are caverns, underground waterfalls, stalagmite and stalactite formations and remains of brown bears, which have been extinct in Ireland for thousands of years. The caves are open for guided tours. The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most spectacular sights of The Burren. These majestic cliffs rise more than 700 feet above the windswept Atlantic Ocean and stretch five miles along the west coast of Clare. Composed of shale and sandstone, the Cliffs' ledges make ideal roosting homes for birds.

On a clear day you can see as far as the Mountains of Kerry, Connemara and the Aran Islands. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is one of the most complete and authentic medieval castles in Ireland. This being Ireland it also has a long and bloody history. The castle is a combination of earlier Norman castles and the later Gaelic Tower Houses furnished with a fine collection of medieval furniture, artwork and ornate carvings. A four-course Medieval Banquet and entertainment with performers in traditional costume is offered in the evenings. County Cork is the largest county in Ireland and Cork City is the second-largest city in the Republic. A unique and lively second capital, the distinctive people are as much an attraction as the place itself. 13 Saint Finbarr first built a monastery on the site that would later become Cork City in the year 650. The city grew along the banks of the River Lee at the point where it splits into two channels. Cork City is essentially an island with 16 bridges. The main commercial area is located along St. Patrick Street, Grand Parade, Washington Street, Oliver Plunkett Street and Main Street. The charm and beauty of Cork City revolves around the contrasts the city offers.

There are a multitude of theaters and a variety of arts. There is also a diverse range of excellent restaurants, cafes, and pubs with traditional Irish music. The city also has many unique and quaint shops. Across the Southern Channel are some of the oldest streets in Cork, along with the campus of University College, Cork. The nearby Blarney Castle was built by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster in 1446 and should be at the top of your must visit list. The castle is located on a thousand acres of beautiful woodland, and is partially hidden by trees, some up to a thousand years old. The castle has been witness to the triumph and turmoil of Irish chiefs and enemy armies. Cobh, (pronounced cove) is a picturesque town located on the Great Island, one of three large islands in Cork Harbour. It was the port of departure for many Irish during the Great Hunger from 1844 to 1848 and has the distinction of being central for two of the worst maritime disasters in history. Cobh was the last berth for the Titanic and the nearest port to the Lusitania when it was torpedoed and sunk off the south coast of Ireland.

The Titanic sank on its maiden voyage while crossing the Atlantic after leaving Cobh (then Queenstown). Nearby Kinsale is a fishing and resort town with a picture perfect harbor. The town's narrow streets are lined with colorfully painted buildings and it is widely renowned for its art galleries and gourmet restaurants. Kinsale is also considered the Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Many of the pubs offer traditional Irish music and upscale fare. COUNTY DONEGAL With its sandy beaches, unspoiled boglands and friendly communities, County Donegal is a leading destination for many travelers. One of the county treasures is Glenveagh National Park, the only official national park anywhere in the Province of Ulster. The park is a huge nature reserve with spectacular scenery of mountains, raised boglands, lakes and woodlands. At its heart is Glenveagh Castle, a beautiful late Victorian "folly" that was originally built as a summer residence. 13 Donegal's rugged landscape lends itself to active sports like climbing, hillwalking, scuba-diving, surfing and kite-flying. Many people travel to Donegal for the superb golf links — long sandy beaches and extensive dune systems are a feature of the county, and many golf courses have been developed.

Golf is a very popular sport within the county, including world class golf courses such as Ballyliffin (Glashedy), Ballyliffin (Old), both of whch are located in the Inishowen peninsula. Other courses to note are Murvagh and Rosapenna. The Donegal Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking district) also attracts young people to County Donegal each year during the school summer holidays. The three week long summer Gaeltacht courses give young Irish people from other parts of the country a chance to learn the Irish language and traditional Irish cultural traditions that are still prevalent in parts of Donegal. Dublin is the capital of the Republic of Ireland and is divided by the River Liffey. The Royal Canal and the Grand Canal provide connections between the port area and the northern and southern branches of the River Shannon. 13 Ha'penny Bridge in Dublin: Tips and hints for moving to Ireland with Irish citizenship or without. Dublin is a city steeped in history and boasts of having the oldest pub in Ireland, The Brazen Head, and the oldest university, Trinity College. It is a center of art and culture and the largest truly cosmopolitan city in Ireland.

O'Connell Street is the main thoroughfare and the widest street in Europe. At the south end, sits a huge monument of Daniel O'Connell, the Irish patriot. The General Post Office (GPO) is also located on O'Connell Street and was the headquarters for the Irish Republican Brotherhood, and the provisional government of Ireland in the 1916 Easter Rising. The Dublin Writers Museum is a restored 18th century mansion located at the north end of Parnell Square. The museum houses manuscripts and first editions of the works of some of Ireland's best writers, including: Behan, Joyce, Shaw, Swift, Wilde, and Yeats. It is also home to an impressive collection of painting, photographs, and memorabilia of the various writers. The Temple Bar Area is the cultural quarter of Dublin. This is a historical and eclectic area filled with art, theater, music, pubs, cafes, and the highest concentration of truly upscale restaurants. There's also the Market in Meeting House Square serving organic foods, unique shops, book and music stores. It also plays host to many open-air events. Trinity College is one of the oldest centers of learning, dating back to the 16th century.

The library is home to the world renowned Book of Kells, a Latin text of the four gospels, with meticulous artwork around the borders, created in the ninth century. The National Museum of Archaeology and History is located on Kildare Street. This branch houses artifacts from 2000 B.C. through the 20th century and includes the National Treasury with many archaeological treasures of Celtic and Medieval art, such as the Ardagh Chalice and Tara Brooch. Christchurch Cathedral is Dublin's oldest place of Christian worship. The Christian Norse, King Sitric, founded it in 1038. Part of the structure goes back to the 12th century. It is presently an Anglican Church. St. Patrick's Cathedral is the National Cathedral for the Anglican Church. Originally built in the 12th century, it is the burial site of Jonathan Swift, a former Dean and author of Gulliver's Travels. Galway City is known as the City of Tribes after 14 merchant families who controlled and managed the city in medieval times and is situated along the River Corrib at the mouth of Galway Bay.

13 Today, the city is a growing and thriving university city that offers the best theater in the country. There is also a vibrant nightlife and music can be found everywhere. During the summer, Galway offers many festivals. Connemara, known for its wild beauty, is located north of Galway City, at the western tip of the county. It is one of the most unspoiled regions of Ireland and a vibrant Irish-speaking area. The Aran Islands, also a Irish-speaking area, are located 30 miles off the Irish coast. The islands themselves consist of three islands, Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer. Inis Móir, meaning Big Island, is eight miles long and two miles wide, and has a population of 900. The fort of Dun Aengus is built on the edge of a sheer southern cliff with a defense forest of sharp stone spikes. Inishmaan means Middle Island. It is three miles wide and two miles long, with fields bordered by high dry stonewalls, and marked by vast sheets of limestone rock. The island peaks at 300 feet and a series of giant terraces slope down to Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

The island has a Gaelic speaking population. Inisheer is known as the Little Island. It is 27 miles from Galway and covers 1,400 acres. It has a population of about 300. This island is an outcrop of the Burren landscape, consisting of bare limestone that is used for the many cottages, stonewalls, roads, and pathways around the island. The Gaelic-speaking island is a haven for birdwatchers and those interested in flora and fauna. COUNTY KERRY 13 The locals know County Kerry as The Kingdom, a reference to the contrasts you'll see in its astounding scenery, which suggest Ireland in miniature. The climate in Kerry is more unique than other places in Ireland, thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, and it's actually possible to swim here year round. Kerry has preserved its heritage in many ways. The oak woods at Derrycunnihy and Tomies, for example, are the last of Ireland's primeval forests. There are many small villages that are still Gaelic-speaking too, adding to the character of the county.

Dingle Town is a fishing village that offers a wonderful selection of shops, restaurants and pubs with traditional music. The Ring of Kerry is located on the Peninsula of Iveragh. It lies between Dingle Bay and The Kenmare River. It is 110 miles of gorgeous coastal and mountain scenery, enveloping the towns of Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Caherciveen, Waterville, Sneem, Kenmare and Killarney. Each town has its own personality. The coastal drive is one of the most spectacular sites in all of Ireland. COUNTY KILKENNY 13 Kilkenny is a county looked on enviously by other counties, and not only because of the county's incredible track record in the ancient Irish game of hurling. Kilkenny is a county filled with enchantment and delight. From the spectacular scenery of the Nore and Barrow river valleys to the cultured beauty of Kilkenny City, the county provides the perfect setting for whatever holiday you desire.

Known through history as the Marble City because of its distinctive indigenous jet-black marble, Kilkenny City offers a curious, yet undeniably attractive mix of perfectly preserved old buildings and the vibrancy of a modern city which has made festivals like the Kilkenny Cat Laughs comedy festival, an event with international recognition. St Canice's Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle are extremely important monuments and quality tours are available. There are plenty of other things to see inside and outside the city and throughout Kilkenny's rural hinterland. Some of Ireland's finest craft studios are to be found in Kilkenny, from pottery to gold and silver-smithing. The experience of seeing a master craftsperson is not one to be missed. For more physically active tourists, Kilkenny has no limit to the range of choices available. The Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course at Mount Juliet is one of the finest in the state. Arguably the best river wild trout fishing is to be found near Durrow on the River Nore. The county has numerous ancient sites including Iron Age fortifications, inscribed stones and crosses, castles, and abbeys. The Dunmore Caves in Ballyfoyle are important both for historical and environmental reasons.

The site of a massacre of the Irish by Viking raiders in 928, and according to legend, the place where The Lord of the Mice was slain Dunmore is best known these days for the wondrous sight of stalagmites of huge size dominating the chambers. COUNTY MEATH 13 County Meath has traditionally been known as the Royal County, being the seat of the ancient Kings of Ireland at Tara. In the Boyne Valley of County Meath are some of Ireland's most important archaeological monuments, including the Megalithic Passage Tombs of Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth, Fourknocks, Loughcrew and Tara. Newgrange is the most famous of these prehistoric monuments. It was originally built around 3,100 B.C. and accidentally discovered in the 17th century. COUNTY OFFALY 13 The heart of the Midlands, County Offaly offers bogs, meadowlands, and undiscovered pastures. Clonmacnoise, located at Shannonbridge on the banks of the River Shannon, is one of the most famous monastic sites. Begun as an isolated monastery founded by St. Ciaran in 545 A.D.

it is to this day an ecclesiastical site, with ruins of a cathedral, eight churches, and three high crosses. Irish chieftains, Vikings and Anglo-Normans plundered Clonmacnoise. Cromwell's forces devastated it beyond restoration. There are guided tours during the summer months; a video presentation at the Visitor Center, and an informative five-mile trail tour of the Blackwater. Located in the center of the historic province of Ulster, County Tyrone is blessed with an array of places to visit. The Ulster American Folk Park, for example, is located three miles north of Omagh. 13 Archaeological stone circles in Tyrone The Folk Park is an open-air living history museum that explores Ulster's links to the many famous Americans who trace their ancestry to the North of Ireland. The park is comprised of an indoor gallery with information on the causes and patterns of immigration. Outside are a variety of reconstructed buildings of 18th and 19th century Ireland. Throughout the park are costumed guides and craftsmen that add to the authenticity. Also on site is the Centre for Emigration Studies, an extensive research library. Plan at least half a day to explore the park.

COUNTY WICKLOW 13 County Wicklow is often referred to as the Garden of Ireland, due to its breathtaking scenery and located just south of Dublin it makes for a wonderful day trip or overnight stay away from the 'big smoke.' Glendalough is a 6th century monastic site that was founded by St. Kevin. Nestled into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains it offers a truly spectacular setting, featuring a stone tower that stands 110 feet tall. There is a visitor center and guided tours are available. Wicklow National Park is an unspoiled natural wonder with nearly 50,000 acres of raw beauty. A drive through the Wicklow Gap from Glendalough to Hollywood is one of jaw dropping beauty. Powerscourt is a beautiful upscale estate with some of the finest gardens in Europe. * Originally published in 2013. Ireland2012 - Doolin and Galway Ireland2012 Galway - Ireland's cultural heart Galway, Ireland Located on the west coast of Ireland, the city of Galway is the third largest in the state, with a population of approximately 76,000.

Rising from a small settlement surrounding a fort in the mid-1100's, the city was captured during the Norman invasion in 1230. The local tribes, merchants by trade, eventually gained control of the city and were granted mayoral status by the English crown in 1484. During the Middle Ages, the city was ruled by 14 tribes and thrived on international trade, as the principal Irish port for trade with Spain and France. The wars of the 16th and 17th century resulted in sieges and conquests of the walled city of Galway, which remained loyal to the British crown. Unfortunately, the potato famines of the mid-1800’s ruined the great families of the area. Galway is known as Ireland’s cultural heart and is a major center for traditional Irish language, music, and dance. Nearly 10% of the city’s population speak the Irish language. Galway is home to an Irish language theatre, an Irish language television station and radio station. The National University of Ireland, initially known as Queen's College, is located in the center of Galway city.

The institution opened in 1849 as Queen's College with 63 students. Today, with 17,000 students, the National University of Ireland Galway houses five colleges: College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies, College of Business, Public Policy and Law, College of Engineering and Informatics, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, and College of Science. The university is a bilingual institution with the Irish language central to its mission and workings. In addition, Irish is taught, from beginning to advanced, in a dedicated Irish language learning building. The campus also houses an Irish language institute "dedicated to pioneering third level education through Irish medium." National University of Ireland, Galway Galway is also a county in Ireland and home to 250,500 people, 34,000 of whom speak Irish. County Galway is the location of the largest Gaeltacht, or Irish-speaking region. This region extends west from Galway city to Connemara and within this area all schools teach in the Irish language. Economically, County Galway is primarily an agricultural region, but tourism and software manufacturing have increased in recent years.

The county is also home to Galway Irish Crystal which crafts traditional Irish crystal. The county is dotted with castles and the remains of monasteries as well as heritage centers for the exploration of local history and tourist information. Leenane, County Galway Leenane is a possible overnight stay during our time in Ireland. This village in County Galway is situated on the northern end of Connemara, on a coastal harbor, Killary Harbour, which is one of three glacial fjords in Ireland. Killary Harbour, Leenane, County Galway Westport is also mentioned in our itinerary as the overnight location during our visit to County Galway. Although it is located in a neighboring county, it is near enough to our route to be our resting stop. Of particular interest is the incorporation of the river into the town. Westport, County Mayo Doolin - Capital of Irish traditional music, June 21-23, 2012 Doolin is a small village in County Clare, on the west coast (Atlantic) of Ireland.

Doolin was traditionally a fishing village which made a name for itself when a historian, Seamus Delargy, went there in 1929 to record North Clare folklore. Soon after, it became a destination for the bohemian set including artists and writers (George Bernard Shaw being one). Although many locals still fish the Atlantic, tourism is now a major "industry." Doolin is known as Ireland’s cradle of traditional Irish music, attracting travelers from all over. Most any night, travelers can visit its three pubs, McDermott's, McGann's (the one we’ll visit) and O'Connor's to hear impromptu jam sessions of traditional music by locals and visitors. Traditional Irish music gained fans around the 1970’s, fueled by the fame of the Russell brothers (see video clip of Micho Russell). Population: small. Approx. 500

Question: In which Irish county is the extensive area of limestone pavement known as The Burren?
Answer: County Clare