A walking tour-what a great way to discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Galway city! And the good thing about Galway is that it’s fairly compact and easy enough to get around on foot. Whether you choose to go with a tour company or make your own way around the cobblestone streets, it’s a great way of being part of the hustle and bustle. Read on for more…
I suppose if you go on your own steam, you can stop and start as you please without feeling you are delaying the group. However a tour company would have the advantage of a guide to answer those “burning questions”, and also to add their personal touch with in-depth local knowledge.
Whichever way you choose to go and explore the city, the following should feature highly on your ”must see list”. Oh, and don’t forget a good Galway map if you’re opting for a self guided tour of the city.
Eyre Square…
This inner city park is the focal point of Galway city. Edward Eyre, Mayor of Galway city gave this tract of land to Galway city in 1710. Eyre Square was re-named Kennedy Memorial Park in 1965, after J.F.K. himself had visited. There is a bust of the man to be seen in the Park. Also check out the Eyre Square Centre when you’re in the area.
Find out more about Eyre Square.
Lynch’s Castle…
Lunch’s Castle is a fine example of medieval Architecture. It’s now home to the Allied Irish Bank (the AIB). The ground floor of the building is open to visitors.
St. Nicholas of Myra Church…
This is a 14th century church built using local materials-limestone and Connemara marble. The church was used as a stables during Oliver Cromwell’s reign but other than that it has served Galway city folk well as a house of worship over hundreds of years.
Home of Nora Barnacle…
Number 8 Bowling Green was the home of James Joyce’s wife, Nora Barnacle. The property has had restoration work done and is a valuable insight into how people lived and worked at the start of the 20th century.
Quay Street and the Spanish Arch…
Quay Street is home to two of Galway city’s best known pubs, The Quays and Tigh Neachtain. Tigh Neachtain takes you back to the Ireland of by gone days with “old style snugs”. Enjoy “trad” music sessions at The Quays.
Spanish Arch-supposedly given this name, because of the many Spanish traders who frequented the city, stands proudly on the left bank of the Corrib. What you see today is the remainder of a 16th century bastion.
Find out more about the Spanish Arch.
Claddagh Village…
During medieval times the occupants of Galway city were driven out to this area by the Normans. Down through the centuries, the inhabitants had their own customs, dress, laws and language. However in 1937, the thatched cottages of this area were demolished and new housing built in its place, thus wiping out, without trace a community’s identity and a vital part of the city’s history.
Find out more about Claddagh Village.
Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas…
This church is located in the medieval centre of Galway city. The building of the church dates back to about the 1300′s and was built in honour of St. Nicholas of Myra. It’s a unique building, as it holds the title of being the biggest medieval church in Ireland that’s still in use.
Galway City Courthouse…
This really is a magnificent building. Work began on the project in 1812 and the courthouse was first opened for business in 1815.
Galway Cathedral…
Building of the Galway Cathedral began in 1958 and the Cathedral was dedicated in 1965. The Cathedral was actually built on the site of the old county jail. The copper dome can be seen for miles and almost everything used in the building was sourced locally. It was designed by Robinson Keefe and is a mix of Romanesque and Renaissance styles with a Spanish influence as well.
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