Galway is known for its vibrant streets, friendly locals, and stunning scenery—but there’s far more to this Irish city than meets the eye. Behind its charm lies a deep well of history, culture, and craic. From medieval landmarks to centuries-old monuments, Galway is packed with historic sites and cultural experiences waiting to be explored.
Whether you're looking for the best things to do in Galway, planning a walking tour of the city’s historic centre, or just want to impress your friends with a few local facts, this guide has you covered. Dive into Galway’s rich heritage and uncover the stories behind its most iconic spots. Galway is more than just a pretty face and here’s where to go to discover more about its colourful history.
The Browne Doorway
This impressive Renaissance doorway serves as a reminder of Galway’s gorgeous architectural features. The doorway was taken from the old Browne mansion of 1627 in Lower Abbeygate Street and re-erected in Eyre Square in 1905. Carvings on the doorway include two 17th century coats of arms, one commemorating the Browne family and the other commemorating the Lynch family. The coat of arms/marriage-stones which appear on the doorway date back to 1627 and represent the union of Martin Browne and Marie Lynch.
Visit it on Eyre Square in the City Centre.
above: Galway's Spanish Arch on a sunny day. | Photo by Ado Lyons.
Spanish Arch
Located on the left bank of the river Corrib, next to Galway City Museum (which is in itself a must visit destination for all history buffs visiting our city), if you’re interested in learning more about the history of Galway there is no better starting point than The Spanish Arch. This iconic structure dates back to pre-medieval times and was built in 1584, as an extension of the 12th century town wall by Wylliam Martin, the 34th mayor of Galway. Fun fact: in 1755 it was partially damaged by a tsunami! Originally known as Ceann an Bhalla, which translates to ‘Head of the Wall’, it’s widely recognised that the Spanish Arch is an inaccurate name for this historical landmark as there is no proven association between the Spanish and the building of the arch. However, it was coined so due to the close trading relationship Galway held with Spain. Nowadays, the area around the Spanish Arch and Long Walk is a popular al fresco spot among locals on a sunny day so even if the history aspect doesn’t interest you, it’s still a must visit destination in Galway City!
Visit it at The Long Walk in the Latin Quarter.
Read more about the history of the Spanish Arch here.
Lynch Memorial Window
This gothic monument has a little bit of a grimmer backstory! An ominous skull and crossbones lies near the spot rumored to be the exact location where a terrible hanging took place. The window is alleged where James Lynch FitzStephen - the elected mayor of Galway AD1493 - condemned and executed his own son Walter after he confessed to the murder of a Spanish merchant sailor by the name of Gomez, who had taken fancy to his girlfriend. Plagued with guilt over what he had done, he retired into seclusion.
Visit it at 12-13 Market Street in the City Centre.
Read more about the history of the Lynch Memorial Window here.
above: The Galway Cathedral from the new pedestrian bridge over River Corrib. | Photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
Galway Cathedral
Officially known as The Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, the site of the cathedral on the banks of the River Corrib was originally the grounds of the old city jail - believe it or not! With construction beginning in 1958, it wasn’t until 1965 that work was completed and this breathtaking building became the youngest great stone cathedral in Europe. Consecrated on 15 August that same year, this sacred space is jointly dedicated to Our Lady Assumed to Heaven and Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and merchants. Eight years were spent perfecting every aspect of this building and it is a triumph to behold. Created in the hopes of being ‘solid, dignified and worthy of Galway’, the stunning craftsmanship and stunning architecture certainly fulfils this brief. The cathedral’s signature octagonal dome is immediately identifiable and can be seen from miles around. Frequently described as a rather eclectic structure, the style draws influence from Renaissance, Romanesque and Gothic traditions.
Visit it at Gaol Road on Nuns Island.
Read more about the history of Galway Cathedral here.
Fisheries Tower
If you are venturing into Galway’s Westend via the Latin Quarter you are going to pass over Wolfe Tone Bridge, and here is where you’ll find Fisheries Tower. This quirky watchtower-like building is one of Galway City’s most historic and recognisable landmarks. Once used by fishermen as a watchtower to monitor illegal fishing activity along the river Corrib, the tower today features a small museum and exhibition space of memorabilia and photographs from Galway’s rich history of river fishing. Of course, you can also enjoy wonderful views of the river Corrib and The Claddagh, making it the perfect spot for photographers as it is a stunningly unique and picturesque part of Galway.
Visit it at Wolfe Tone Bridge in Galway's Westend.
Read more about the history of the Fisheries Tower here.
The Hall of Red Earl
In the Latin Quarter, The Hall of the Red Earl stands as a tribute to and reminder of the medieval Galway of centuries gone by. Dating back to the 13th century, the archaeological ruins are linked to the founding of the city itself by the Anglo-Norman De Burgo clan. Its remains were uncovered in 1997 and during the major preservation works over 11,000 artefacts were found at the site. Today it’s encased in glass wall panelling with a viewing gangway allowing access to everyone curious to catch a glimpse into the Galway of 900 years ago.
Visit it at Druid Lane in the Latin Quarter.
Read more about the history of The Hall of the Red Earl here.
above: Inside St Nicholas' Collegiate Church. | Photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church
For over 700 years, St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church has stood tall in the heart of Galway city. The church has been described as a treasure trove of Galway history, and their tours are now considered an essential experience for locals and tourists alike. St. Nicholas’ Church, while also a place of worship for many, is open to all for guided and self guided audio tours throughout the building. During the tours, you will walk through a visual timeline of the significant events that have taken place in Galway. The tours demonstrate the incredible span and depth of Galway’s history. The bell tower is also included in some church tours. The church was officially established in 1320, and there are remains that are still standing that can be dated as far back as the 1200s. Founded by the Normans, the church was built when Galway was only a new and small town. Throughout the next couple of centuries the church underwent renovations, additions and changes that made it into the church we see today. There are still the remnants of angel icons who were defaced by Cromwellian troops in the 1600s. Only one angel remains unscathed, and was fittingly dubbed the name of the ‘smug angel’. Historians for the church encourage everyone to step inside, and get a glimpse into what Galway once was, and in many ways is still today.
Visit it at 7 Lombard Street in the City Centre.
Read more about the history of St Nicholas Collegiate Church here.
Nora Barnacle House
Behind the vivid blue door of the smallest house on Bowling Green, you’ll find a museum dedicated to Nora Barnacle - the muse of Ireland’s legendary literary figure James Joyce. Open from June to September, the museum tells the story of Nora and her family, and is filled with memorabilia of days gone by. Each year, Bloomsday, a celebration of Joyce’s legacy is held on June 16th and the Nora Barnacle House always commemorates the day in a special way so it’s definitely worth visiting if you are interested in learning more about Joyce’s ties to Galway.
Visit it at 8 Bowling Green in the City Centre.
Read more about the history of the Nora Barnacle House here.
above: An conversation that goes on and on. | Photo courtesy of Ireland's Content Pool.
Oscar Wilde & Eduard Vilde Statue
This bronze statue that every Galweigan knows well is a symbol of the friendship and heritage between Ireland and Estonia. The statue shows off two literary legends, Oscar Wilde and Eduard Vilde. The two men never met in real life, but they have a lot in common. They both lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they both wrote in different genres and languages, and they both faced censorship and persecution for their views. They also both visited Paris, where they died and are buried. The statues were created by Estonian sculptor Tiiu Kirsipuu in 1999, as a tribute to the two writers and their cultural connections. The original sculpture is located in Tartu, Estonia, while a replica was gifted to Galway by Estonia when it joined the EU in 2004. The statues are made of bronze and sit on a granite bench, inviting visitors to join them or take a photo with them.
Visit it on William Street in the City Centre.
University of Galway
While the University of Galway is usually full with students hurrying to lectures, during the summertime it acts as a peaceful oasis on the edge of the city centre. Full of green areas and eye-catching architecture, a stroll around the campus during its quieter months is always a lovely experience. At the heart of the university, the Quadrangle (fondly referred to as the Quad) is the most photographed point of the campus and once you stand in the midst of its stunning Tudor Gothic inspired architecture you’ll understand why.
Visit it on University Road in Newcastle.
Read more about the history of the University of Galway here.
Main photo of Galway Cathedral by Chaosheng Zhang.
Published on Updated on
