A Travel Guide to Galway
The only city in the Irish province of Connacht, Galway is a major hub for visitors to West Ireland and is often just a base for travelers before they continue their journey onwards on public transport.
However, with a population of around 72,000, it is actually the fourth largest city in the whole Republic of Ireland and well worth a visit in itself.
In addition to the great budget accommodation provided by Galway hostels, there are lots of attractions in the city - although it is the culture and atmosphere of Galway that makes it such a unique place to explore.
Galway has been nicknamed Ireland's Cultural Heart, and deservedly so.
In 2004, there were a stunning three dance groups, ten festival companies, two film organizations, 23 musical societies, twelve theater companies, two visual arts groups and four writers' groups based in the city! Additionally associated with the Irish language and traditions (including music, song and dancing), Galway has also been referred to as the Bilingual Capital of Ireland - even though the bulk of its population speak English.
As it is not very big, Galway is easily accessible on foot from all hostels in Galway and a walking tour of the city makes a good introduction to its history and architecture.
Along the way, visitors can see some of the significant sites in Galway, including Lynch's Castle, the Town Walls and the Town Hall.
This cultural city also has some particularly noteworthy remnants of its medieval past, such as the St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, which is the largest remaining medieval church still in use in Ireland.
It was founded in 1320, although it has since been enlarged in the following two centuries.
And after a long day of sightseeing, travelers can head to one of Galway's historic pubs - some of which date back to the 14th century - for a relaxing drink and another taste of the city's prolific culture.
However, with a population of around 72,000, it is actually the fourth largest city in the whole Republic of Ireland and well worth a visit in itself.
In addition to the great budget accommodation provided by Galway hostels, there are lots of attractions in the city - although it is the culture and atmosphere of Galway that makes it such a unique place to explore.
Galway has been nicknamed Ireland's Cultural Heart, and deservedly so.
In 2004, there were a stunning three dance groups, ten festival companies, two film organizations, 23 musical societies, twelve theater companies, two visual arts groups and four writers' groups based in the city! Additionally associated with the Irish language and traditions (including music, song and dancing), Galway has also been referred to as the Bilingual Capital of Ireland - even though the bulk of its population speak English.
As it is not very big, Galway is easily accessible on foot from all hostels in Galway and a walking tour of the city makes a good introduction to its history and architecture.
Along the way, visitors can see some of the significant sites in Galway, including Lynch's Castle, the Town Walls and the Town Hall.
This cultural city also has some particularly noteworthy remnants of its medieval past, such as the St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, which is the largest remaining medieval church still in use in Ireland.
It was founded in 1320, although it has since been enlarged in the following two centuries.
And after a long day of sightseeing, travelers can head to one of Galway's historic pubs - some of which date back to the 14th century - for a relaxing drink and another taste of the city's prolific culture.
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