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| The Spanish Arch and museum |
WHAT IS THE SPANISH ARCH? -(Thanks to http://galwaycity.galway-ireland.ie): The
Spanish Arch built in 1584, stands on the left bank of the River Corrib, where
Galway's river meets the sea. The arch
is the remainder of a 16th century bastion, added to the town's walls to
protect merchant ships from looting. At this time, it was known as Ceann an
Bhalla (Head of the Wall).
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| Sign over the Arch |
It was originally an extension
of the famous city walls, designed to protect the quays. The Spanish Arch is,
in fact, a misnomer, as there is no proven association between the Spanish in
Galway and the building of the Arch.
The Arch features a wooden sculpture, called Madonna of the Quays, which
was sculpted by the well known artist, Claire Sheridan, who lived in the adjacent
building during the 50's.
Today The Spanish Arch is home
to the Galway City Museum, which nestles into one of its impressive walls. Its
current title Spanish Arch dates from the last century - a reference to the
former merchant trade with Spain, whose galleons often docked under its protection.SO WHAT HAPPENS TO OLD CASTLES? Well there was part of an old castle near the waterfront at 21 Quay Street, Galway. It's near the Spanish Arch. It's now "Costa Coffee!" Sadly, I couldn't find out anything about the former castle.
NEXT: A LAST LOOK AT GALWAY, OLD BUILDINGS AND THE STORY OF THE CLADDAGH RING
