Quincentennial Fountain: Galway's Symbolic Landmark

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Commemorating Galway's maritime history, the Quincentennial Fountain in Eyre Square is a symbolic landmark and popular gathering place.

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Quincentennial Fountain

The Quincentennial Fountain, located in Galway's Eyre Square, is a modern sculpture commemorating the 500th anniversary of Galway's city charter. Designed by Eamon O'Doherty, its copper sails represent the traditional Galway Hooker boats, symbolizing the city's maritime heritage.

A brief summary to Quincentennial Fountain

36-40 Eyre Square, Galway, H91 F882, IE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Quincentennial Fountain.

Visit Eyre Square during the Galway Continental Christmas Market for a festive experience.
Take a stroll around Eyre Square to see other monuments, including the Browne Doorway and the JFK Memorial.
Bring a camera to capture the unique copper sails of the Quincentennial Fountain, especially beautiful when water is flowing.

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Getting There

Walking

The Quincentennial Fountain is centrally located in Eyre Square. From anywhere in the square, simply walk towards the center. The fountain is easily visible and serves as a central landmark. No cost is involved.
Public Transport

From the Galway Bus Station, exit and walk straight down Forster Street until you reach Eyre Square. The Quincentennial Fountain is located directly in the square. Galway city bus single fares are approximately €1.90 cash, or cheaper with a Leap Card. Leap card fares for trips up to 7.5km are €0.65 for children and young adults/students, and €1.55 for adults.
Parking

If driving, the closest parking is at Eyre Square Centre or Q-Park Eyre Square. Hourly rates are around €2.50-€4.20, with daily maximums ranging from €15-€29. Evening rates (7 PM to 8 AM) are approximately €6.50-€14. Be aware that parking availability can be limited, especially during festivals and peak tourist season.

Discover more about Quincentennial Fountain

The Quincentennial Fountain, an iconic landmark in Galway's Eyre Square, commemorates the 500th anniversary of Galway City's incorporation as a borough with mayoral status in 1484. Erected in 1984, the fountain was designed by renowned architect and sculptor Eamon O'Doherty.The fountain's design features copper sails that symbolize the sails of the Galway Hooker boats, which are unique to the Galway area. These traditional boats played a vital role in the city's maritime past, and the fountain serves as a reminder of Galway's connection to the sea. The fountain is a popular meeting spot and a focal point within Eyre Square.Eyre Square itself has a rich history, dating back to medieval times when it served as an open green space outside the town gates. Over the centuries, the square has undergone many transformations, including being gifted to the city in 1710 by Mayor Edward Eyre. Today, Eyre Square, also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, is a vibrant hub of activity, hosting festivals, markets, and offering access to shopping and dining.