From quaint castles to fascinating culture, here are ten facts about beautiful Ireland that most people don’t know.
It’s not hard to see why Ireland is on many people’s travel wish lists. The Irish are very friendly, the countryside is beautiful, and the cities and villages are lovely. Ireland is the birthplace of some of the most spectacular natural scenery on the globe and is welcoming to everyone. There are many causes why Ireland is a wonderful vacation destination, including the presence of iconic landmarks like the Cliffs of Moher and many more. However, before visiting the country, travelers should first know ten facts they probably didn’t know about Ireland.
Facts 1: Shamrock is not the coat of arms of Ireland.
While many believe that the shamrock is the national symbol of Ireland, the Gaelic harp is a valid symbol of the country. To be precise, Ireland has an instrument as its national symbol, making it the first country to do so. Tourists can visit the oldest harp in Ireland in the Book of Kells at Trinity College in Dublin and know that the harp has a fascinating history, having spent a period in the Vatican during the reign of the king. Henry VIII.
Facts 2: English is not the primary language in Ireland.
Without a doubt, English is widely spoken throughout Ireland, with most people identifying it as their native language. On the other hand, Irish is the official first language of the country. It can be seen in large letters on all official government documents and public transport, signs, and other public buildings. Although Irish is taught as a subject in schools across Ireland, many people still discover it challenging to hold an easy discussion in the Gaeilge language.
Facts 3: Halloween originated in Ireland.
Another interesting tidbit about Ireland is that the children’s favorite holiday, Halloween, originated in this country. Thousands of years ago, the Celtic celebration of Samhain laid the groundwork for today’s joyful occasion. At the end of October, visitors to Ireland have the chance to partake in the country’s most unique New Year’s Eve celebration. Every year, on the last week of October, Foyle’s Londonderry Bank Halloween Carnival hosts a spooky four-day event with people of all ages encouraged to dress up as monsters and their favorite ghosts for celebration.
Facts 4: Saint Patrick is not even from Ireland!
Saint Patrick was not born in Ireland, contrary to popular belief, although he is the country’s patron saint. At 16, he was kidnapped by Irish bandits from his native England. He worked as a shepherd in Ireland for over five years as a bonded enslaved person. He later returned to Ireland as a missionary, making significant contributions to the spread of Christianity in the country. Many people think he is Irish, mostly because he grew up and died in the country.
Facts 5: Three famous breweries can be found in Ireland.
With good reason, the island nation is known for its high-quality beers and wines. Brewing has been a part of the country’s culture for over thousands of years. Much of Ireland’s beer is still top-fermented and dark in color, using roasted malt instead of hops to provide flavor. A thriving independent craft beer scene exists in Ireland, although Guinness and Beamish are household brands in the business. Guinness, Smithwicks and Harp Lager all have their origins here. The famous Irish beer is also another fascinating aspect of the country.
Facts 6: Ireland Has Good Views Of The Northern Lights
If tourists come to Ireland at the right time of year, mainly late October, they can witness the Northern Lights in the sky. They can be seen from dusk to dawn for several hours during the clear night. Choosing the North Shore, where there are no artificial lights that could obscure the view, is the most unlikely choice for the best ideas. It is amazing to see how visitors flock to see the lights during this time of year.
Facts 7: It is illegal to get drunk in public.
In Ireland, being drunk in public is an offense; they believe people could endanger themselves or those around them, contrary to what many tourists believe about Irish people and our drinking habits. However, St Patrick’s Day was when the law was relaxed significantly because there were not enough police officers to track down a million or more tourists to the country.
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