Description of the attraction
The City Museum of Galway, located in the city center near the Spanish Arch, provides insight into Galway's historical and cultural heritage.
The museum was founded relatively recently, in the mid 70s of the last century. It was originally located in Comford House, in the house where the famous writer, journalist and sculptor Claire Sheridan lived. The museum existed here until 2004, and in 2007 it was reopened in a new, purpose-built building. The Spanish Arch, part of the city's ancient defensive fortifications, serves as the wall of the museum's courtyard. The height of the new building is limited to three floors so that it can fit into the existing development of the old city center.
The permanent exhibitions of the museum tell about the history of the city from ancient times to the present day. A separate exhibition is dedicated to the village of Claddah, a suburb of Galway, home of the famous Claddah rings, a symbol of love, fidelity and friendship (two hands hold a heart crowned with a crown).
Since Galway is a seaport, the museum displays fishing boats, signal lights, navigational books, etc. More recent history is reflected in photographs of the city that have been taken since the 1950s. Of particular interest is the collection of textiles recently donated to the museum by the nuns of the Dominican Order. This is a magnificent collection of embroideries, tapestries and woven bedspreads made from the 17th to the 20th century.
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum constantly hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions.
