Sightseeing in Galway - what to see. Complete travel guide

Galway is an old port city and administrative center of the eponymous county located in the west of Ireland. The history of the city begins in 1124. Fort at the Mouth of the Gaillimh (Dún Bhun na Gaillimhe ) was built here at the beginning of the 12th century. The settlement that formed near the stronghold had a very advantageous strategic position, therefore these lands had been under the close attention of the Normans for a long time. The fort was captured by 1230 when the conquerors were headed by Richard Óg de Burgh.

Since that time, the rule of the de Burgh dynasty that has eventually accepted the Irish culture was established in Galway. The city developed primarily as a trade center. During the Middle Ages, the city's administration was occupied by local merchants' dynasties. Galway's official status was received in 1484, when it maintained close economic ties with England, while relations with Ireland were more than restrained. The situation changed only at the end of the 17th century when Galway was captured by the troops of William III.

During the War of the Two Kings, all hereditary trading dynasties living in Galway were destroyed. The city's economic achievements were seriously undermined and it eventually fell into decay. Galway has restored its former importance as a major economic and commercial center only by the end of the 20th century. It has experienced incredibly rapid economic growth over the past decades. A significant part of the city's present-day economy is occupied by the tourist sphere. More than one million foreign guests visit it every year. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The today's city is distinguished by its well-developed agricultural industry. After years of battles and wars, it has retained one of its main virtues - the fabulously beautiful nature and a favorable climate. Galway has become a venue for holding annual agricultural fairs, which attract both professionals in this sphere and ordinary travelers. The modern city is characterized by quite a calm and relaxed atmosphere. it is pleasant to walk on foot on its picturesque streets; the city is not overloaded with motor transport and has kept a lot of unique historic landmarks.

The favorable climate makes Galway incredibly attractive in the eyes of tourists, as they can go on a trip at any time of the year. Frosts are extremely rare here even in the midst of winter, and in summer there is always a moderately warm weather. The city is sure to appeal not only to lovers of hiking and excursions but also to shopping fans: a huge selection of shops is guaranteed.

It's a good idea to start a walk through the shopping streets from the Eyre Square located in the city center. This is the place where William Street , Mainguard Street start. These and many other streets accommodate incredibly interesting shopping pavilions. It is noteworthy that almost all the Galway's shopping streets are fully pedestrian, while many popular shops occupy spectacular historic buildings. The city would be a great destination for gastronomic tourism enthusiasts who can explore some charming national restaurants and pubs. The national cuisine is based on hearty meat and seafood dishes, while any meal is not complete without some potatoes. The most popular national drink is local Irish coffee with traditionally added fragrant whiskey.

Galway is rich in historical landmarks, but it is particularly important to mention Kylemore Abbey. The gorgeous building is located in a picturesque place near a lake. The beautiful castle was built in 1871. When all construction works were over, the luxurious mansion was already occupying an area of more than 13,000 acres. It was surrounded by lush gardens and parks, some fragments of which have survived till our days. The castle was privately owned until 1920, and after that Benedictine monks founded a monastery in the strikingly beautiful building. In 1993, the historical building was thoroughly reconstructed and then opened to the general public.

Travelers are recommended to visit Ashford Castle that is present in the list of the most famous castles in Ireland. First mentions of the fabulous castle date back to 1228. During its centuries-long history, the castle changed several owners. At the beginning of the 20th century, the unique castle changed its owner once again. Noel Huggard purchased it and decided to open a posh hotel there. The hotel greeted its first guests in 1910 and keeps working until our days. Ashford Castle is the winner of many prestigious awards. Nowadays, absolutely everyone can spend several days in this beautiful castle.