Nora Barnacle House Museum

Home of Nora Barnacle: wife of James Joyce

Nora Barnacle House was the Barnacle family home from 1894-1940. It is now a small private museum, faithfully restored to its former character. It is open to the public by appointment only. It contains many interesting photographs, objects and articles.

Image © Nora Barnacle Museum [ig]

Visiting the Nora Barnacle House Museum

Situated in Bowling Green in Galway City Centre, the Nora Barnacle House Museum preserves the legacy of Nora Barnacle, muse of James Joyce, who lived here from 1894 to 1940. Despite its modest size, it’s hailed as Ireland’s smallest museum, offering a glimpse into the life of Nora and her influence on Joyce’s work.

Image © Nora Barnacle Museum [ig]

Within its walls, visitors discover relics of a bygone era – photographs, letters, and personal effects, each telling a story of Nora’s connection to Joyce and Galway’s literary history. Their love story, culminating in marriage in 1931, adds depth to the museum’s narrative.

In 1987, Mary and Sheila Gallagher restored the house, ensuring Nora’s legacy endures. Despite her passing in Zurich in 1951, Nora’s influence lives on, celebrated through Nora’s Irish Gin from Tigh Nora.

Image source: wikipedia.org

As visitors explore this historic site, they’re transported to a simpler time, where the essence of Nora’s life and love continues to captivate hearts. The Nora Barnacle House Museum stands as a testament to her enduring impact on Irish literature and culture, inviting visitors to connect with her remarkable story and the rich heritage of Galway.