The must see sights of Galway City
During your visit to Galway there are a number of prominent landmarks and historic places worth exploring. All of these are within short walking distance of each other and close to the centre of the city. Walking is the best way to get around Galway’s compact (and mostly pedestrianised) city centre. Start at Eyre Square, the city’s focal point, originally a market area and now a well maintained public park. Head westward to the city’s main thoroughfare, a street (famed for its buskers and street art) that changes its name five times, from Williamsgate and William to Shop, High, and Quay Streets, before it crosses the River Corrib and changes its name again! And then stroll the River Walk along the River Corrib from the cathedral to the Claddagh.
Here are some of the city’s highlights:
The Latin Quarter
The area known as The Latin Quarter is one of the most popular parts of the city to visit for browsing through the interesting shops, stopping off for refreshments or a bite to each at one of the many cafés and restaurants reflecting the latest hip trends. Historic landmarks include the remains of Blakes Castle, a 17th century fortified tower house; the historic Fishmarket area adjacent to the Spanish Arch and Kirwan’s Lane, one of Galway’s oldest surviving medieval streets. See: www.thelatinquarter.ie
Spanish Arch
Built in 1594, this unique twin-arched structure was the focal point of the landing dock area where Spanish shops unloaded their cargoes of wine and brandy from their galleons. It is the last bastion of Galway’s early links with Spain.
See: https://www.galwaytourism.ie/the-spanish-arch/
Galway City Museum
Galway City Museum is the prime showcase for historical and cultural memorabilia about Galway including the famous Padraic O’ Conaire statue that originally occupied a corner of Eyre Square. It is a modern and airy structure with splendid views of the city and Galway Bay from its upper floor windows. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission.
See: www.galwaycitymuseum.ie
Galway Cathedral
The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas, University (usually referred to simply as Galway Cathedral), dominates the Galway skyline with its huge Renaissance-style dome. It is one of Galway’s newest buildings, completed in 1965, made of limestone and marble from local quarries.
See: www.galwaycathedral.ie
Collegiate Church of St. Nicholas
Founded in 1320 and a showcase for many medieval church furnishings. It is said that Columbus prayed at this church before embarking on his transatlantic voyage. Guided tours are conducted May-September. In July and August, the church holds traditional Irish Music concerts on Monday and Wednesday and sometimes Friday, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. On weekends the bustling outdoor Galway market surrounds the church and provides a wonderful menagerie of local food and craft stalls to explore.
See: www.stnicholas.ie
The Claddagh
Located off Wolfe Tone Bridge, this is now a residential area, but it began as a small fishing village, probably older than Galway itself. It takes its name from the Irish language “An Cladach,” meaning “the sea shore.” Legend says that the people here originated the Claddagh ring, a wedding ring cast in the form of two hands clasping a heart with a crown at the top. Today this ring is a popular souvenir all over Ireland.
See: https://www.galwaytourism.ie/the-claddagh/
Click here for a full list of the sights to see in Galway.
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