Welcome to Galway

Galway City is the third largest city in the Republic of Ireland (a population of 75,414). 

Galway is home to the longest place name in Ireland, Muckanaghederdauhaulia, which means “piggery between two briny places”.

Galway City is nicknamed “The City of Tribes” after the fourteen merchant families who led the city during the Hiberno-Norman period.

The most famous person born in Galway is Hollywood actor Peter O’Toole. O’Toole holds the world record for Oscar nominations without actually winning (eight).

The Claddagh Ring is Galway’s own symbol of love and friendship, worn the world over.

In 2007, Galway was named one of the top eight “sexiest cities” in the world.

There are 7,000 Irish speakers in Galway city, which is nearly ten percent of the population.

Galway is often referred to as the “Cultural Heart of Ireland” as it is most associated with the Irish language, music, song and dance traditions.

The city is known for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations and events including the summer’s Galway Arts Festival which is known for its famous Macnas (the arts group) parade.

The park at the centre of Galway City is officially called John F. Kennedy Park after the presidential visit of 1970.