Facts and Figures

Galway City

Situated at the mouth of the River Corrib and upon the Western reaches of the Republic of Ireland is Galway City. Founded by Anglo-Norman settlers in the 12th century and incorporated as a city in 1484, the city is as rich in heritage as it is in modern attractions. The 1996 census revealed Galway to be one of the fastest growing cities in Europe, rising from 50, 853 inhabitants in 1991 to 57, 241 in 1996.

Often referred to as the 'Capital of the West', Galway is a cultural Mecca of sorts, attracting thousands every year to the many lively festivals hosted by the town. A few of the biggest attractions are the Galway Film Fleadh, the Galway Arts Festival, the Galway Races and the Oyster Festival. In addition to its status as a centre of language, art and culture, Galway is home to nearly 13, 000 students during the academic year, many of which attend the National University of Ireland, Galway; the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology; or one of the many language schools in the area.

County Galway

The surrounding County Galway is the second largest county in Ireland; its 5939 square kilometers are surpassed only by County Cork. And because nearly one-half of its 132, 000 inhabitants live in the County Borough (Galway City) the area retains an old -world charm.

The region features many attractions, including the single largest Gaeltacht in Ireland - an area in South Connemara where Irish has always been the first language. And as the nation's centre for the Irish language, Galway was the natural choice for the all Irish radio station Radio na Gaeltachta and TG4 the Irish television station. Other enticements include the stunning landscapes of Connemara, the celebrated Aran Islands, and the many lakes throughout the countryside; the largest of which, Lough Corrib, is over 43 kilometers long.

Something for everyone

Because of the unique combination of a vibrant and growing city, robust with thriving universities and a booming economy, and the surrounding County that has remained remarkably unchanged through a storied past, the Galway area has something to offer each of us. Whether you come for business, education or simply to see Ireland in all of its many facets, the Galway experience will leave you with something that you can carry with you forever.

Jeremy Usher
November 2000