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Legend of the Claddagh Ring

Explore the enchanting history of the Claddagh Ring, a timeless Irish symbol of love, friendship, and loyalty, in the heart of Galway City.

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Discover the captivating story of the Claddagh ring, a symbol of love, friendship, and loyalty, at this visitor center and museum on Shop Street in Galway. Learn about the ring's origins in the Claddagh fishing village and its journey to becoming an iconic emblem of Irish heritage.

A brief summary to Legend of the Claddagh Ring

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and more personal interaction with the staff.
  • Check out the gift shop for authentic Claddagh Rings and unique Irish crafts.
  • Don't miss the film that tells the story of the Claddagh Ring.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Legend of the Claddagh Ring is located on Shop Street, a pedestrianized thoroughfare in Galway City Centre. From Eyre Square, walk southwest along Shop Street. The visitor center will be on your right, near the intersection of Shop Street, Mainguard Street, and Market Street.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes operate in Galway City Centre. From the Galway Bus Station at Eyre Square, walk to Shop Street. The Legend of the Claddagh Ring visitor center will be on your right, near the intersection of Shop Street, Mainguard Street, and Market Street. A single bus fare is approximately €1.90. Using a TFI Leap Card can reduce the fare by up to 30%.

  • Parking

    Parking is available in several locations in Galway City Centre. Shop Street offers parking with hourly rates of €2.50 and a maximum daily rate of €15. Q-Park Eyre Square is another option, with rates of €3.50 per hour and €29 for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that Galway City Centre can be busy, especially during festivals, so allow extra time for parking.

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Discover more about Legend of the Claddagh Ring

The Legend of the Claddagh Ring visitor center, located on Galway's Shop Street, offers an immersive journey into the history and symbolism of this iconic Irish ring. The Claddagh ring, with its distinctive design of two hands holding a heart topped by a crown, represents love, friendship, and loyalty. The legend traces back to the 17th century in the fishing village of Claddagh, just outside Galway. One popular tale attributes the ring's creation to Richard Joyce, a Galway fisherman captured by pirates and enslaved in Algeria. Trained as a goldsmith, he crafted the ring for his sweetheart, who waited for him. Upon his release in 1689, he returned to Galway and presented her with the ring. At the visitor center, a short film brings the legend to life, and exhibits showcase the ring's evolution and significance. You can also witness skilled artisans crafting authentic Claddagh Rings using traditional methods. The Claddagh ring has become a symbol of Irish heritage, worn worldwide and interpreted in different ways depending on how it is worn. The center also provides insights into the history of Galway and the Claddagh area.

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