Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Republic of Ireland
Capital city: Dublin is the capital and largest city of Ireland. It's
located on the province of Leinster, bordered on the south by the
Dublin Mountains, a part of Wicklow Mountains range.
Geography: The state extends over an area of about 5/6 (70, 273
square kms) of the Island of Ireland (84, 421 square kms). It's
located in north-western Europe and surrounded by the Atlantic
Ocean, to the north and west, by the North Channel, to the north-
east, by the Irish Sea, to the east and the Celtic Sea, to the south-
west.
Population: 5 123 536
Official languages: Irish and English
Flag: Green represents the Catholic majority; White symbolizes
hope for peace; Orange is the colour of the Protestant population.
History: From the Act of Union on January 1st 1801, until
December 6th 1922, the Island was part of the United Kingdom of
Great Britain and Ireland. In 1919, Ireland intended to grant self-
government with the Third Home Rule Act, however, its
implementation was suspended due to WWI. In 1916, a fraction
of Irish volunteers staged the Easter Rising against British rule,
which coupled with the Conscription Crisis of 1918, shifting
public opinion. In 1919, the Sinn Féin MPs established the Irish
Assembly, declaring independence.
Ireland became independent through a combination of political
movements, armed resistance and diplomatic negotiations,
culminating in the establishment of the Irish Free State.
Culture: For centuries, Ireland's culture was mainly Gaelic,
making it a Celtic Nation. The Anglo-Norman Invasion in the
12th Century and the British colonization from the 16th Century
onward introduced English and Scottish influences. Despite its
distinct features, Irish Culture shares traits with anglosphere,
Catholic Europe and fellow Celtic regions. The Irish diaspora has
contributed to the globalization of the Irish culture, producing
many prominent figures in art, music and science.
Cuisine: Irish cuisine has its roots in meat, dairy and seafood,
with traditional dishes like boxty, colcannon, coddle and stew.
The Irish Breakfast is a notable favourite. While European
influences are present, the modern Irish cuisine emphasizes fresh
vegetables, fish, shellfish, and artisanal cheeses. Salmon and cod
are quite popular, as well as soda bread, wheaten bread and
Barmbrak (a Halloween tradition). Tea and coffee are common
beverages. Some notable alcoholic drinks are Poitín, Guinness
and various types of Irish Whiskey.
Traditions: Irish traditions include Halloween, pub culture, Irish
dance, Irish folk music, and more, though the most popular one in
St. Patrick’s Day. St Patrick's Day, held on March 17th,
commemorates the death of Saint Patrick, the Patron Saint of
Ireland, It involves public parades, festivals and the wearing of
green attire. It's a public holiday in Ireland, Newfoundland and
Labrador and celebrated globally, mostly in the UK, Canada, US,
Argentina, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.
Ireland is a very important country to the world. It brought us
culture, new traditions, delicious food and so much more.
It’s also a very beautiful place with noticeable landscapes but also
impressive architecture and art.