Ireland is a fascinating country with a rich history, culture and natural beauty. Many know its green landscapes, its rich musical tradition and its famous whiskey.
However, there are many curiosities about the Emerald Isle that escape common knowledge. So I decided to write this article to talk a little more about them!
The Leprechaun Museum
When we think of Ireland, many of us imagine the leprechaun, the little mythological creature who hides his pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. But did you know that in Dublin there is a museum dedicated to this being and Irish mythology in general?
The “Leprechaun Museum” takes visitors on a magical journey through Irish folklore. More than just a museum, it’s an interactive experience that plays with proportions (preparing rooms where visitors feel the size of a leprechaun) and tells engaging stories about Ireland’s mystical world.
Irish Gaelic is still alive
Despite English domination and globalization, Irish Gaelic, or simply “Irish”, is still spoken in regions of Ireland known as “Gaeltachts”. In these areas, Irish is the everyday language, taught in schools and used in signage.
The government has made significant efforts to revitalize the language by encouraging its teaching and use. Even outside the Gaeltacht areas, many Irish people have a special fondness for their native language and integrate it into cultural and everyday moments.
The oldest distillery in the world
Ireland is famous for its whiskey, but did you know it’s home to the world’s oldest still-operating distillery? The “Old Bushmills Distillery” in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, received its license to distill in 1608.
For over 400 years, it has produced some of the world’s most prized whiskeys. Visiting the distillery is like taking a trip back in time, where you can appreciate the ancient distillation process and, of course, taste some of its refined products.
The Book of Kells and Its Mysterious Origin
The Book of Kells is one of the most beautiful and ancient works of art in human history. This illuminated manuscript, created by monks in the ninth century, contains the four Gospels of the New Testament. However, the true origin of the book is shrouded in mystery.
Many believe it was bred on the Isle of Iona in Scotland and was brought to Ireland to protect it from Viking raids. Today, the book resides in the Trinity College Library in Dublin and is one of the main tourist attractions in the city.
As you can see, Ireland is full of surprises and mysteries waiting to be discovered. These four fun facts offer just a glimpse of the magic and charm this island nation offers.
