Galway - Gateway to the West of Ireland.

Galway, the city of the tribes, is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. The city grew from a small fishing village. In 1235, the Anglo Normans had captured the fort of the Galway chieftains, and built a strong castle, around which the medieval set tlement grew. The walling of the city started in 1270, and the city grew as a merchant city. It's wealth was created by 14 merchant families, who later became known as the 14 Tribes of Galway. During the first half of the 17th century, it was a well built city, however, two seiges by the Cromwellian and the Williamite forces saw the fall of the city. The Tribes went into exile, and it is only today that a real revival of the city is evident. Today it is a city known for it's love of the arts and culture.Above all however, Galway is a city that never sleeps what with its never-ending racing, art and music festivals and its wonderful nightlife, vibrant with traditional music.