Galway was founded in the 13th century by the Anglo-Norman de Burgos as a medieval settlement on the eastern bank of the River Corrib. It became a walled and fortified city state ruled by fourteen powerful merchant families, later known as the "Tribes of Galway".

Galway has many reminders of its past scattered throughout its streets. Modern buildings now stand alongside monuments and buildings that are hundreds of years old. The best way to explore is on foot or on a city bus tour. Here we have mentioned some of the historic sights you should see on your travels.


The Browne Doorway: Dated 1627 it bears the Coats of Arms of the Lynch and Browne families. It has stood on Eyre Square for three quarters of a century and is the entrance to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park better known as Eyre Square. The Park has several other monuments reflecting Galways colourful past;
The statue of Padraic O Conaire one of our famous Irish language literary figures sits proudly at the top of Eyre square. The Fountain represents the sails of Galways local fishing vessel the" Galway Hooker" and symbolises the strong connection between Galway and its maritime traditions. The Cannon were presented to the Connaught Rangers for their military achievements at the end of the Crimean War 1854-1866. The John F. Kennedy Plaque was erected in honour of the former U.S. president on receiving the freedom of the city in June 1963.

Dating back to 1320, Lynchs Castle was built for one of the most important Galway Tribe families. Now a modern bank, it is a fine example of how Galway has managed to keep the old and the new in harmony. Kirwans Lane is one of the last remaining late Medieval Lanes. The Spanish Arch at the mouth of the river Corrib, was beside the original fish market. The arch was part of a 16th century bastion and was later added to the town's City walls to protect merchant ships from looting. Parts of the City Walls can also be seen in the Eyre Square shopping centre.
The Church of St. Nicholas built in 1320 by the Lynch family, contains carvings and relics from the middle ages, Christopher Colombus prayed here during his stay in 1477. Galway Cathedral occupies the site of the old city gaol, built in cut limestone, it has magnificent stained glass windows and Connemara marble floors. University College Galway was built by the impoverished people of the area during the Great Famine to enable them to earn a living. The original Tudor-style building is now complimented by extensive modern buildings set in beautiful grounds. The college also has a small museum an interesting art collection.