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Medieval Galway Walking Tour: Explore Historic City
5.0
1 Rating
Galway
Explore Medieval Galway with expert guide Marteen Lane. Discover historic remnants on a 2pm walking tour. Book now for an unforgettable journey through time.
Duration:
1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- The Browne Doorway - The Browne Doorway is a standalone door located in Eyre Square. Originally from a house on Lower Abbeygate Street, it belonged to Martin Browne, a prominent merchant.
- Eyre Square Centre - Within Eyre Square Shopping Centre lie the remnants of the city walls. These walls, common in medieval towns, served as defensive structures. Visitors will learn about their significance to the people of Galway.
- Lynch’s Castle - Lynch’s Castle is associated with the Lynch family, one of the 14 Tribes and a powerful family. Today, it houses AIB bank and is the oldest commercial building in Ireland.
- The Lynch Memorial - Known as the City of the Tribes, Galway was controlled by 14 families during the medieval period. Discover the story of the Mayor of Galway, who executed his own son in the 1400s.
- Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church - St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church has been central to Galway city for over 700 years. Visitors will hear about Jane Eyre and James Kearney, and how Cromwell’s soldiers used the church as stables. There is an entry fee, not included in the tour price, which supports the church’s maintenance. Entry is optional for visitors.
- The King’s Head - The King’s Head pub is a popular venue in Galway city, with historical ties to the beheading of King Charles I of England.
- Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold - Visit Thomas Dillon’s Jewellers on Quay Street, the original creators of the famous Claddagh ring since 1750. Learn the story behind this iconic ring.
- Hall of the Red Earl - The Hall of the Red Earl is a notable archaeological site managed by Galway Civic Trust. Discovered in the late 1990s, it features foundations, walls, columns, and buttresses. Visitors can explore the site up close.
- Kirwan’s Lane - During the medieval period, Galway had 14 lanes and alleyways. Kirwan’s Lane, one of the five remaining lanes, is named after the Kirwan family, one of the 14 Tribes. It still retains elements of medieval Galway in its buildings.
- Quay Street - At the end of Quay Street stands Blake’s Castle, once owned by the Blake family, one of the 14 Tribes. The castle served as the county jail at one time. Visitors will learn about the life of criminals in the jail. Although it fell into ruin, it was restored around the 1980s.
- The Spanish Arch - The Spanish Arch is one of Galway’s most iconic landmarks. Built as an extension of the city walls, it protected boats moored in the harbor. Visitors will hear about the Claddagh across the river and the tsunami that destroyed two of the arches.
What's Included
- Guide with 11+ years of experience
- BA (Hons) in Heritage Studies
- Fáilte Ireland Regional Guide
What's Not Included
- Entrance fee into St. Nicholas’ Church.
Additional Information
Join a walking tour of Medieval Galway led by a knowledgeable regional guide and member of the Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland. Explore the remnants of Galway’s medieval era and uncover the city’s rich history.
Begin your journey at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square, where your guide will lead you on an engaging tour to discover the city walls, Lynch’s Memorial Window, the story of the Claddagh ring, Hall of the Red Earl, and much more.
Learn how the 14 Tribes seized control of Galway from the de Burgo family, transforming it into a significant trading hub along the western seaboard during the medieval period.
- Please note, tour runs in all weather, unless there’s a severe weather warning. Please dress accordingly. In the event of a severe weather warning the tour will be cancelled for the safety of the group, and an alternative date or a full refund will be given.
Location
The Browne Doorway
Eyre Square
It's a free-standing stone Doorway with perspex glass surrounding it on the northside of Eyre Square. Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour so we can start on time.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
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(1 Rating)
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John_c
Aug 22, 2024
Galway - Marten was a terrific guide very knowledgeable and personable. We learned about the origin of Galway and how it has grown over the years.
Review provided by Viator
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