Ireland is a sovereign country in northwestern Europe, that about 80% of the island of Ireland covers. Sometimes it is described as the Republic of Ireland to distinguish the country from that island. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Irish Sea to the east, St George’s Channel to the southeast, and the Celtic Sea on the south. It has a land border in the northeast of Northern Ireland, part of the United kingdom. Its total area is 27,133 square miles. The capital and largest city is Dublin. In Ireland there are twenty-six traditional provinces, which are used for cultural and sporting purposes and mail.
Ireland is a republic, with a parliamentary system of government. The President of Ireland is head of state, current President Mary McAleese.
Some architectural features in Ireland date back to the prehistoric period, including standing stones and tombs. Palace of the Boyne, the Poulnabrone dolmen and Drombeg circle known examples, they are on the World Heritage Site. Introduced by the Normans were the Gothic cathedrals with high-pointed arches and clustered columns such as St Patrick’s. Traditional music and singing in Ireland finds its origin back hundreds of years, but still played across the country. Among the best-known modern performers are artists such as Enya and Sinéad O’Connor. In other musical genres Boyzone, Westlife and U2 are internationally renowned Irish band.
Ireland has many regional products, which you can find at farmers markets, such as smoked salmon, chicken and eel, or Irish farmhouse cheese or soft toffee. Ireland is also known for its beer, like Guinness and the famous whiskey, which is distilled three times.
The former Viking town of Waterford is known for the glass, the famous Waterford Crystal is produced there. In the south of the county Cork lie the resorts of Youghal and Kinsale, there you can go for water sports and fishing. Just 5 miles from Cork lies the City Blarney, one of Ireland’s most picturesque villages, with his well preserved village square. A great sight to visit nearby is the legendary Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle. By kissing the Blarney Stone, which you find high on the Castle battlements, you are endowed with the gift of eloquence, is told by the tradition..
Surrounded by beautiful forests, more than a thousand acres, is it the perfect place for walks and enjoy the clean, fresh environment of Blarney. Another beautiful place is County Down, a picturesque region of rolling hills with a spectacular contrast with the rugged and imposing Morne Mountain and Slieve Donnard which rises 2782 feet high. Or Strangford Lough which has a lush nature with seals, geese, terns and wild birds, that nest on the quiet shores. The southwest of Ireland has four large peninsulas, as dragon heads stabbing in the ocean. Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream there is a mild climate, so in the many botanical gardens, beautiful subtropical plants grow.
Citizens of the EU and most other Western countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa do not need a visa, just a valid passport. All other visitors to the Republic of Ireland are advised to leave contact with the Irish embassy or consulate in their own country.
