Ireland, Island in North Atlantic, northwestern Europe.
This North Atlantic island spans 32,000 square miles (84,000 square kilometers) and features central limestone plains framed by coastal mountain ranges, while numerous bays define its 4,700-mile (7,500-kilometer) coastline.
Norman and English conquests from the 12th century onward established feudal structures, while subsequent plantations and rebellions shaped political arrangements until partition occurred in 1921.
Gaelic language and culture remain integral across much of the island, particularly in western coastal regions where Irish serves as an official language alongside English and receives instruction in schools.
The Shannon River flows 240 miles (386 kilometers) through the island and forms three major lakes: Lough Allen, Lough Ree, and Lough Derg, which serve as popular destinations for houseboat journeys and angling tourism.
The North Atlantic Current maintains temperatures 20 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius) above average for this latitude, producing mild winters and cool summers despite the northern location.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
