The Claddagh
Claddagh was once a fishing village on the western edge of Galway City, situated where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Claddagh was a distinct Irish speaking community with its own king, who led the fishing fleet and made the big decisions. The fishermen sailed a particular type of boat known as a Hooker and the women of the village sold the catches at the Fish Market, located in front of the Spanish Arch. The age-old ceremonial blessing of Galway Bay and its fishermen still takes place today. Nothing survives today of the thatched cottages where the fishermen and their families lived but Claddagh is still a clearly defined area around the Dominican Church of St Mary on the Hill.
An exhibition, which includes a 3-D model of the village, explores life in the village. The museum also offers excellent views of the Claddagh and Galway Bay.
Location: Level 2