The Claddagh Ring originates from Galway. Its creation is attributed to Richard Joyce, a native of Claddagh, who was captured by pirates and sold into slavery as a boy. He learned the craft of the goldsmith and returned to Galway on his release. Claddagh symbols around Galway Although the first Claddagh Ring is believed to [...]
March 16, 2011
The Claddagh of old
Back in the day (as far back as medieval days, that is), a fishing village thrived outside the city walls in Galway, Ireland. That village was called Claddagh (named from the Irish word for the “stony shore” on which it was located) and gave its name to the world-famous Claddagh Ring. From this village at [...]
March 9, 2011
Claddagh or Claddaugh?
Claddagh takes its name from the Irish word – An Cladach – meaning a stony shore. Not surprisingly, translating into English gave rise to a few different variations in spelling. Claddaugh is incorrect! Although Claddaugh is a variation sometimes quoted online, the correct spelling in English is Claddagh. Another popular spelling is the much abbreviated [...]
March 9, 2011
The Claddagh as it is today
On the west side of Wolfe Tone Bridge, beside one of the “Fáilte (welcome) Claddagh” signs that mark the entrance to the Claddagh, stands the statue of Fr. Tom Burke, a Dominican priest from Galway who was a famous preacher in his time – 1830-1883. The statue was erected in 1948. The road on which [...]
March 9, 2011
Meaning of the Claddagh Ring
The iconic Claddagh Ring is a favoured item of jewellery known and loved the world over. It is used not only as a wedding and/or engagement ring, but is also given as a token of friendship. The ring’s Irish heritage obviously adds to its popularity but its symbolism of friendship, love and loyalty have re-emerged [...]
March 8, 2011
Directions to the Claddagh
Although the old Claddagh fishing village is long gone, a visit to the Claddagh area just across the river from Galway City is still worthwhile. Claddagh map See the map and directions on how to find the Claddagh below. To reach the Claddagh from Galway town centre (the route is highlighted in red on the [...]
March 8, 2011
The Claddagh Ring book for children
Claddagh: The Tale of the Ring is a beautifully-illustrated children’s book, which tells the story of the first Claddagh Ring. Three hundred years ago, while he was still only a young lad, Richard Joyce had to leave his native Galway to find work. He was captured by pirates and worked for a goldsmith who taught [...]
March 27, 2011
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