Galway Visitor Attractions

Dunguaire Castle, Kinvara.

Dunguaire Castle, Kinvara in Galway was built around 1500, for the O' Hynes family.The first record of Kinvara, as a market place dates back to 1615, when Oliver Martyn, residing in Dunguaire Castle was granted a licence to hold a Saturday market in Kinvara. During the 1600's, access to Kinvara would have been a lot easier by sea than by land and as a result of the growth in business and commerce in Galway.

Dunsandle Castle and Woods

Dunsandle Castle was built in the 15th Century by the De Burgos, a Norman family of that area. The reasons for building it at that position were good arable grazing land, elevated / strategic site and proximity of castles (18 castles between Craughwell and Kiltullagh).

Eyre Square, Co Galway

Eyre Square (renamed John F Kennedy Park) ; was officially presented to the city in 1710 by Mayor Edward Eyre, from whom it took its name. It was renamed in 1965 "Kennedy Memorial Park" in honour of US President John F. Kennedy, who visited Galway city shortly before his assassination in 1963.

Galway Cathedral

Gaway Cathedral situated on the banks of the River Corrib in Galway city is the most recently built of Europe's great stone cathedrals, and is the centre of a vibrant community.Inside the visitor can see the impressive dome and magnificent windows and paintings. Galway Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh & Kilfenora.

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey in Connemara is nestled at the base of Druchruach Mountain (1,736ft) on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, the heart of the Connemara Mountains. Originally built in 1867 .Today it is open to visitors all year and the main areas to be visited are; the Abbey, the Gothic Church, the Victorian Walled Gardens, the Craft Shop, Pottery studio, Restaurant and Tea Rooms as well as the Lake and Woodland walks.<

Portumna Castle & Gardens

Portumna Castle was built prior to 1618 by Richard de Burgo (Burke), the 4th Earl of Clanricarde, and a member of the Anglo-Norman de Burgo (Burke) family. Located in eastern County Galway near the north shore of Lough Derg, the partially-fortified castle is Jacobean in design. The immense structure is built in a rectangular block with a tower on each corner.

Galway Museum

Galway Museum gives an view into a history of Galway City through the years. Located in Galway City Centre it hosts a number of interesting and varied exhibitions throughout the year. The visitor will leave with an insight into the history and culture of Galway.