Shankill Road, Main thoroughfare in West Belfast, Northern Ireland
Shankill Road is a main artery in West Belfast, Northern Ireland, running about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) from the city center into the western neighborhoods. Shops, cafés, and rows of terraced homes line both sides, while large wall paintings with political and historical themes cover many building facades.
An early 5th-century church stood here, giving Shankill its name, and several smaller chapels lined the western riverbank. The peace lines went up in 1969 to separate neighboring communities and limit contact during the Troubles.
The name comes from Old Irish, meaning "old church," recalling the early places of worship that once stood here. Local residents still reference this past through street names and community centers that honor the district's original character.
Tour buses stop regularly during daytime hours, giving visitors time for photo breaks and a walk around. The street is easy to explore on foot with no major inclines, and curbs are lowered throughout.
Tall concrete barriers have separated this street from neighboring Falls Road for decades, illustrating the physical division between two communities. Some sections are fitted with metal gates that close in the evening.
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