Ireland Fun Facts

                                    See, how beautiful Ireland is!
 
Ireland, an island located to the northwest of Europe, is one of the largest islands in the world. Ireland is one such glorious place that has a rich history and culture along with picturesque beauty and lush green scenery. Ireland has made a large contribution in literature and the very traditional folk music combined with the beautiful steps of the Irish dance all reflect the rich culture of Ireland. Here we go with some fun facts of Ireland!

Interesting Facts about Ireland

1. Ireland is known as the Emerald Island, thanks to its lush greenery.
2. Many castles in Ireland have 'murder hole' in the roof close to the entrance of the castle. This hole was used to dump daggers or hot liquids on enemies.
3. Not a single snake is found in Ireland. On the other hand, the only reptile found is the lizard.
4. The country is home to only three amphibians: the frog, newt and the toad.
5. The Irish Police force, are unarmed, but the detectives always carry firearms.
6. Ireland is also very popular as the home of pop music with Westlife, Celtic Woman, Horslips, Boyzone, Thin Lizzy, Clannad, Boomtown Rats, The Corrs, The Cranberries, Ronan Keating, Gilbert O'Sullivan, etc. as some of the world famous bands.
7. The Blarney Stone, which according to the legend, when kissed, gives the person ability of eloquence. Every year, millions of visitors visit and kiss this legendary stone.
8. Ireland possesses the second longest place name in Europe. The Irish village is called Muckanaghederdauhaulia, meaning 'pig-marsh between two seas'.
9. Titanic, the Unsinkable ship, which sunk in its maiden voyage, was made in Ireland.

Ireland Fun Facts - People

1. The Gaelic is the commonly spoken language in Ireland, next to Irish and English.
2. The Irish believe that on Judgment day, Jesus Christ will be the judge of all people, but St. Patrick will be the judge of the Irish.
3. James Hoban, an Irish, designed the White House in Washington.
4. In Ireland, the number of cell phones is actually more than the number of people. 
5. Irish people greet each other with the expression, "How are you? or "How ye keeping?". By this expression, they mean to be polite and expect a brief "Can't complain now, thanks." in reply. They are not looking for the details of one's medical history.
6. Most of the Irish family names start with 'Mac' or 'O'...", which literally means 'son of ...' and 'grandson of ...' respectively in Gaelic.
7. The Irish census revealed that the most popular boy's name in Ireland is Sean and the most popular girl's name is Emma. 
8. Over 5% of the Irish population are Polish. Moreover, today there are more Polish speakers as compared to the native Irish speakers in the country. There exists around 34 million US residents with Irish ancestry. This is why it's popularly said 'There are more Americans of Irish descent in America than there are Irishmen in Ireland'.
9. Irish people are also known for their sense of humor with respect to death, religion and relationships.
10. The Irish people are hardworking, very honest and known for their friendliness, hospitality, sense of fun and wonderful humour.
    

Cultural Facts

1. In Ireland, men never lifted a finger in the house to help and were never expected to. If a man washed the dishes, he would be called an “auld woman” by other men. 
2. “Nollaig na mBan” or “Little Women’s Christmas” is an old custom that’s still celebrated by women all over Ireland. It happens on January 6th, when women can get a break for a day to go out to relax with each other while men will take over of the housework.
3. According to the Irish birthday traditions, people hold the birthday child upside down and bump the head slightly on the floor. The bumps correspond to the age of the child. It is believed that this tradition brings good luck.
4. The Celtic knot is one of the most famous Irish symbols that stands for continuity of life. Apart from this, the harp, the Shamrock, and the Irish wolfhound are some other famous symbols that belong typically to Ireland.
5. The most identifiable breakfast tradition on the Emerald Isle is the Full Irish Breakfast. It's a huge platter of food consisting of rashers, bangers, black pudding, white pudding, eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, potatoes and Irish beans. It's usually served with a regional bread such as Irish brown bread or soda bread.
6. Irish wedding gift’s that are traditionally given include items like salt and pepper shakers and tall toasting glasses (flutes) which are considered lucky gifts to receive or a porcelain bell which is given to remind the couple of the bells that rang when they married.
7. Irish people prepare much for Easter Sunday by doing “spring cleaning”. This is usually done before the blessing by the local priest in a religious ceremony which exists hundreds of years ago.
8. The Irish are known for their love for music and dance. The beauty of the Irish dance is such that it can mesmerize even those who have no particular interest in dance, an example of Irish dance is Riverdance.
9. Ireland boasts the finest writers of all times. Some famous Irish sayings reveal the nature and ethos of the Irish people and would possibly help you see the lighter side of life!

"May the saddest day of your future be no worse than the happiest day of your past.  "