Galway City

History

Galway City has a population of approximately 80,000 and is believed to have been continuously inhabited since the neolithic period. Legend has it that the Fir Bolg and Tuatha De Dannan tribes, perhaps mythical, battled at Lough Corrib just to the north and the vanquished Fir Bolgs took refuge in the Aran Islands. The Celts are presumed to have arrived around 500 B.C. and are the originators of the Irish language. The greatest concentration of Irish speakers today is found in the Gaeltacht region in County Galway. Viking incursions occurred several centuries later but evidence of Viking settlements is absent. A fortress was built by the O’Connors in 1124 and subsequently destroyed by the O’Briens in 1132. During the Anglo-Norman invasions of the 13th century, a settlement was established at the mouth of the Corrib River and over the next centuries Galway City became an active trading port whose commerce was dominated by powerful families including the Lynches and Martins. The official city charter was granted in 1484 with the first mayor, Pierce Lynch, assuming office in 1485. Conflict between the Irish inhabitants and the English Crown grew and culminated with the surrender of the city to Cromwell’s forces in 1652. The city was surrendered again in 1691 after King James II was deposed. Many difficult years followed characterized by economic and social turmoil. The 1704 Popery Act banned Catholics from settling in the city and many were later expelled. Trade declined significantly and in the 1840s Ireland was struck by famine which devastated the population. Since the Irish War for Independence and the Civil War which raged in its aftermath (1916-1923), the fortunes of Galway have gradually and steadily improved. Today Galway is a thriving city known as an alluring tourist destination and as a center for art, culture, commerce, and study.

Things to Do

Galway City is constantly abuzz year with activity. Tourists usually head to the pubs, restaurants, and shops in the city center. You will find many of the country’s top traditional musicians performing at venues in the city. The city also hosts many festivals and events which attract crowds from all over. These include the Galway Races, the International Arts Festival, the Oyster Festival, and the Jazz Festival. Click here for a calendar of the many and varied activities scheduled. Galway City is also a convenient launch point for visits to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, and the Aran Islands.