 Located in northwestern Europe, the Republic of Ireland is bordered by the United Kingdom, the North Atlantic Ocean, and the Irish Sea. It is a land steeped in history, but not particularly well endowed with historical marvels. Ireland is known for its misty green countryside, its culture and tradition (including legends and folklores), and its warm-hearted and friendly people.
The Hibernia of yore, Ireland was too cold and bleak a country for the Romans to colonize. However, the native Celtic people continued to worship the sun till they were converted to Christianity by St. Patrick in the 5th century. The invasions by the Vikings in the 9th century and by the Anglo-Normans in the 12th century were two significant events in Irish history. The British began concerted efforts to colonize Ireland in the 17th century but succeeded only a century later. The potato famine of 1845-1849 and the Easter Rising of 1916 were two other turning points in Irish history. In 1919, the Irish Free State was born, though six northern counties which had a Protestant majority voted to stay with Britain. Following a trade war with the U.K. the Irish Free State later became the Republic of Ireland.
Ireland is a small country with picturesque countryside.
Dublin is the capital and a very pleasant city to visit with lots of sights and things do.
Waterford decidedly have a strong medieval feel, with a lively pub scene at night.
If you want to explore some tourist destinations that are off-the-beaten-track, Ireland has plenty of them. To begin with, the Burren region is an extraordinary place with underground springs, caverns, chasms, and cracks. The
Ring of Kerry and the area around Killarney are great for hiking and biking as well. Add to it the Aran Islands, Clonmacnois, and Connemara, Galway and Sligo and you are sure to have a wonderful time close to nature.
Ireland is one of those ideal traveling destinations except for one thing: the weather. But you would be foolish to let this stop you. If is should pour down, you can always take refuge in one of the small cities or in Cork the biggest city of the south.
There's so much more to learn... Check out our Facts For The Visitor or read up on our reviews of everything about Ireland:
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