The Rebellion of 1641, which began in Ireland’s northernmost province of Ulster on October 23, was a bad time in the history of Ireland. Catholics surprised the Protestant settlers, killing a very large number of them. This sudden revolt by rebel Catholics divides historians about short term and lon …

There is a great poem by Irish writer Thomas Kinsella. The piece is entitled “Mirror in February,” and ends as follows: “In slow distaste / I fold my towel with what grace I can, / not young, and not renewable, but man.” In those few brief words, an important question is elegantly drawn — why is …

When you see a Claddagh ring, it’s hard to forget, since the distinctive design features a pair of hands holding a heart with a crown on top. Also called a fainne Chladaigh in Irish, it’s been a part of Irish tradition for so long that nearly everyone in Ireland knows what it is by default. However, …

Whatever it is you’re looking for, Belfast has something to offer. And once you’ve discovered this jewel of Northern Ireland, you’ll always want to come back.Museums, Historic Sites, and ToursThe last surviving Victorian market in Belfast, the St. George's Market is ideal for your summer Irish shop …

For as long as anyone can remember, the people of Ireland have put the copious contents of their imaginations down in writing, contributing to a literary tradition that has since been recognized as one of the most prolific and praised in the entire world. Writers of every age, gender, and backgro …

Lughnasadh (pronounced “LOO-nah-sah”) is one of the four primary festivals in the ancient Celtic calendar. Each quarter of the year had its own celebration to mark the dark and light parts of the year. Samhain in October prepared for winter and the end of the harvest season. Imbolc in February cel …