Ireland:Land of Enchantment and Diversity

The customs and religious beliefs of Ireland have mixed and changed over the centuries. Yet so much of what Ireland is today is reminiscent of its mythical past. For example, where else would you hear loud noise and the clamor of voices singing "Happy New Year!" on November first? In old Ireland, Samhain was the start of the new year. The ancient Celts believed the world entered into the dark half of the year on that date. It was a period when the earth rested and renewed itself for a new time of fertility and harvesting. This particular celebration is now observed on October 31st. We know it as Halloween. And did you know there aren't any snakes in Ireland? This is true, but the most interesting aspect is "why" it is believed there are none. Legend has it that when St. Patrick evangelized pagan Ireland, he not only drove out their heathen customs, but the snakes as well. Fact mixed with fiction.

Ireland is a beautiful land with a fascinating history and lore. Shamrocks and fuschia...leprechauns and fairies...Tin whistles and harps-there is so much hiding behind the beautiful face of the land of Erin, that once you enter her historic realm, you may never want to leave.

In recent times, with the popularity of Irish traditional dance shows such as Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, the Emerald Isle and Irish customs have taken a new place in the heart of America and the world. And no wonder. Ireland is as rich in culture as it is in...well, the color green!

Although a small country, Ireland is a study in diversity. The gentler east has soft rolling green hills and more lavish castle remains. The western coast is a "terrible beauty"...rocky shores, home to the mythical selkies, and tall mountains such as the Twelve Pins in Connemara...and high, rugged cliffs like the Cliffs of Moher in The Burren.

Connemara, now a national park in the northern part of County Galway, with its mountains and valleys and loughs, is a deep contrast to the Burren in County Clare. The Burren is a barren but beautiful limestone wilderness. "Burren" comes from the Gaelic word "bhoireann" and means a stony place. It has been said of The Burren, there is not enough water to drown a man, not a tree to hang him on, and not enough dirt in which to bury him. But even in this, the Burren itself is a contrast. It is home to some of the most exquisite flora in the world, drawing botanists and plant lovers from all over the world during the summer months. And despite its rocky ground, green

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic