The Claddagh
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from the Claddagh.
The Claddagh (Irish: An Cladach - meaning, "a stoney beach") is a
beach area in the western part of Galway, Ireland. People have been
gathering seafood and fishing from the area for millennia. Historically,
its existence has been recorded since the arrival of Christianity in the
5th century. It is one of the oldest former fishing villages in Ireland.
The Claddagh was once a fishing village located west of Galway city
centre, just outside the old city walls where the Corrib River meets
Galway Bay. It is in clear view of The Spanish Arch, which was the
location of regular fish markets where the locals supplied the city with
seafood.
During the 19th century the Claddagh attracted many visitors,
including writers who spread its fame. Irish-speaking into the 20th
century, the village was replaced by a council-housing scheme in the
1930s.
In recent years, the city of Galway has expanded considerably, so the
Claddagh is now considered to be part of the city centre. This keen
location has also caused house prices to inflate substantially over the
last 10 years, making The Claddagh one of the most expensive locations
to live in Galway.
The Claddagh area contains a National School, Community Centre and a
Catholic Church.
The Claddagh is famous for the Claddagh ring, which is popular among
those of Irish heritage as both a friendship and wedding ring. The
design consists of two clasped hands holding a crowned heart, and
symbolizes love, friendship and loyalty.
Source: Wikipedia
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