From ancient traditions to modern marvels, the land of Ireland weaves together rolling green hills and rich history with special surprises. Here are nine cool facts that prove the uniquely special character of the Emerald Isle.
1. Halloween originated in Ireland
Halloween representation evolved from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the close of harvest and initiation of winter. According to Celts, October 31 was the day when the borderline between living and spirit worlds is blurred. People started to light bonfires and wear costumes in order to ward off evil spirits from them—practices that would evolve into such modern Halloween traditions as trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving.
2. Ireland is famous for its gorgeous, diverse landscapes
Known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland represents a country full of beautiful landscapes that attract millions of visitors at any time of the year. From the Cliffs of Moher’s wild beauty to lakes in Killarney, there is diversity in natural beauty. The Ring of Kerry provides the visitor with a nice coastal drive, while County Clare’s Burren offers an altogether different view, harsh lunar-like landscape of limestone. Ireland’s emerald green landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and mystical mountains have been keeping artists and writers alive throughout ages.
3. It has a deep literary culture
Ireland’s literary heritage is acclaimed the world over, with generations of writers acknowledged as being among the greatest. From Oscar Wilde to James Joyce, Irish writers have made a peculiar contribution to world literature. It has also produced four Nobel Prize winners in Literature: W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, and Seamus Heaney. This continues through the host of contemporary authors, such as Colm Tóibín and Sally Rooney, to this day, ensuring that Ireland’s literary legacy remains most vibrant.
4. Irish is one of the oldest surviving languages in Europe
Irish, or Gaeilge, is one of the oldest living languages in Europe, with its date of origin going as far back as the 8th century. For over 2,500 years, it has been an integral part of Irish culture and identity. Once on the brink of disappearance after centuries of decline, Irish remains the national and first official language in Ireland. Although quite a number of measures for its preservation and nurturing exist to this day, Irish-speaking areas have managed to survive mostly along the western seaboard.
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5. The Oldest Pub in the World
Sean’s Bar, located in Athlone, County Westmeath, claims to be the oldest pub in the world, dating back to 900 AD. Old coins and remains of the ancient walls are in testimony of that ancient history. It is open until today, giving the visitors a chance to get a pint in genuinely historic ambiance.
6. Ireland has the largest number of redheads in the world
The largest proportion of redheads is held by Ireland, with an estimated 10% of their population sporting fiery locks. Due to this genetic disposition in the MC1R gene, it is more common in Ireland and Scotland. This has been one event that brings pride and cultural identity, celebrated even in events such as the Irish Redhead Convention.
7. Ireland’s national symbol is a musical instrument
Unique among national symbols, Ireland’s is the harp; no other country in the world has a musical instrument as its national symbol. The harp has been used since the 13th century as a symbol for Ireland on official documents, coins, and even the Presidential flag. A harp even adorns the Guinness logo, but this one turns the other way to differentiate from the official State harp.
8. The Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way covers 2,500 kilometers as the longest defined coastal driving route in the world, following Ireland’s western seaboard from Donegal County in the north to Cork County in the south. This is a beautiful journey that will take you through nine counties and three provinces of stunning landscapes, historic sites, and beguiling coastal villages.
9. Ireland is famous for its Guinness beer
Guinness, the famous Irish dry stout has been associated with Ireland since it was founded by Arthur Guinness back in 1759. More than 250 years ago, the Guinness Brewery had been initiated within St James’ Gate in Dublin. Having a dark, creamy flavor, Guinness became known globally as a famous beer. On a visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction, one can get an insight into the brewing process.
The following nine facts constitute a very extensive insight into Irish culture, history, and the beauty of its nature: from cherished age-old traditions to modern-day charms, Ireland never ceases to captivate and surprise visitors with its distinctive charm and character.