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Aran Sweater Market: A Stitch in Time

Discover authentic Aran sweaters at the Aran Sweater Market on Inis Mór, a timeless emblem of Irish heritage and craftsmanship.

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The Aran Sweater Market on Inis Mór, Aran Islands, is more than a shop; it's a cultural experience. It showcases the iconic Aran sweater, steeped in Irish history and tradition, offering a tangible connection to the island's heritage and craftsmanship.

A brief summary to Aran Sweater Market

  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as ferry services can be affected by rough seas.
  • Allow ample time to explore Inis Mór beyond the market, including Dún Aonghasa and the Worm Hole.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary way to reach the Aran Sweater Market is by ferry from the mainland. Ferries depart from Rossaveel (year-round), Galway City (seasonal), and Doolin (seasonal). From Rossaveel, the ferry journey to Inis Mór takes approximately 40 minutes. From Galway City, the ferry takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Doolin, the ferry takes 35 minutes. Upon arrival at the Kilronan ferry terminal on Inis Mór, the Aran Sweater Market is located within a short walk. Typical ferry costs (round trip): From Rossaveel, approximately €30 for adults and €15 for children. From Galway City, approximately €49 for adults and €25 for children. From Doolin, approximately €39 for adults and €20 for children. Parking is available at Rossaveel pier for €7 per 24 hours. Doolin parking costs €5 for up to 30 hours or €15 for up to a week.

  • Walking

    From the Kilronan ferry terminal, the Aran Sweater Market is easily accessible by foot. Upon disembarking, follow the main road into the village. The market is located on your left-hand side, a short walk from the pier. The walk is mostly flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

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Discover more about Aran Sweater Market

The Aran Sweater Market on Inis Mór offers a deep dive into the history and craftsmanship of the iconic Aran sweater. These sweaters originated on the Aran Islands, where they were hand-knitted by women for their fisherman husbands, providing warmth and protection against the harsh Atlantic weather. The natural, unscoured wool retained its oils, making the sweaters water-resistant, perfect for the unpredictable Irish climate. Each stitch in an Aran sweater carries its own symbolism, reflecting the lives and beliefs of the islanders. The cable stitch represents a fisherman's ropes, promising a fruitful day at sea, while the diamond stitch symbolizes the island's fields. The honeycomb stitch embodies hard work and its rewards, and the tree of life signifies clan unity and strong family lines. While myths abound about Aran sweaters serving as identifiers for drowned sailors, the reality is that the craft gained prominence in the early 20th century as a means for island women to supplement their families' income. The Aran Sweater Market plays a vital role in preserving this heritage, offering a wide selection of authentic Aran sweaters and other knitwear, allowing visitors to take home a piece of Irish history.

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