Our main reason for going to Galway was for Miles to give a lecture and meet with colleagues at NUI. Instead of two days there, we stayed only 1 day (cut our time there short because we wanted to see a bit of the coastline before Miles flew to D.C. for his dad's funeral). That's why I don't have any pictures of Galway besides the university.
So while Miles spent his day at the university, I went on a day tour to Inishmore, the largest of the 3 islands in Galway Bay called the Aran Islands.
After a 45-minute ferry ride, we landed at a small and quaint dock with a few stores and B&B's. The day was grey and drippy, but this only added to the atmosphere.
The island is famous for its strong Irish culture, loyalty to the Irish language, and an abundance of Pre-Christian and Christian ancient sites including Dun Aengus, a pre-historic fort.
There are only about 840 inhabitants. The main jobs
are related to fishing, cattle and tourism. The land is not suitable
for growing crops and is full, I mean FULL, of rocks. There are stone
fences everywhere and our guide said there are about 7,800 kilometers of
stone fences on the island which is only about 31 km2 (12 sq mi). Really, really beautiful.
Inishmore is also the home of Aran Sweaters, the famous Irish fisherman's knit.
NUI (National University of Ireland)
Such a beautiful university
So while Miles spent his day at the university, I went on a day tour to Inishmore, the largest of the 3 islands in Galway Bay called the Aran Islands.
After a 45-minute ferry ride, we landed at a small and quaint dock with a few stores and B&B's. The day was grey and drippy, but this only added to the atmosphere.
The island is famous for its strong Irish culture, loyalty to the Irish language, and an abundance of Pre-Christian and Christian ancient sites including Dun Aengus, a pre-historic fort.
Dun Aengus
Rocky landscape
Lots and lots of stone fences
The area is also well-known for beautiful cliffs.
Cliffs, wind and no railings--yikes!
Currach, traditional fishing boat
Thatched house--very few of these are left
I didn't know that the patterns of the stitches have a traditional interpretation, often of religious significance. The honeycomb is a symbol of the hard-working bee.
The cable, an integral part of the Aran islander's daily life, is said
to be a wish for safety and good luck when fishing. The diamond is a wish of success, wealth and treasure. The basket stitch represents the basket, a hope for a plentiful catch.
In addition, the patterns are also connected to clans, much like Scottish plaids.
Stitch patterns and clans
I really loved my time on the island, but I wondered how people can live in such a difficult environment. Tradition!
What a lovely University. Laurie; I love your adventurous spirit. I expect to see you sporting an Aran sweater. They are SO warm and cosy.
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