Ireland is a special place… beautiful, with a rich history. It is also home to talented writers such as Oscar Wilde. Ireland has contributed much to literature and traditional folk music, along with the beautiful movements of Irish dance, which reflects the rich culture of this beautiful country. Irish castles nestled in the lush and green plains speak to the rich history of this glorious place. This article will take you on a journey through Ireland and introduce you to its culture and traditions, some of which have been forgotten and some of which still exist today.
Irish culture has only a few divisions between people with different religions and languages. That is why more and more immigrants are arriving in this place today.
Way of Life
The people of Ireland are known to be very hospitable and friendly. Family is very important in Ireland. Traditions of Irish culture can be seen in Irish villages. There is a great deal of tradition followed here, which is in great contrast to modern life in Irish cities. There are also many people in Ireland who live in luxurious mansions.
Modern Irish people are used to communicating with each other more openly. They believe it is better to talk about their feelings than to hold them back.
English is still the main language in Ireland. Although the national dialect can be heard in many villages. Irish originated with the Celts, so some older Irish can speak traditional Irish as well.
Houses here are still built according to the old traditions and style. Bright cheerful colors can be seen on the walls of most homes with colorful doors. And in Ireland, these are most often houses with a terrace, and central heating has replaced the traditional fireplaces here.
Activities and Industries
Farming in Irish culture has been around for a very long time. In the old days, keeping cattle gave the Irish a definitely high status. In the past, men did all the main work on the farm. Women were usually only involved in selling the resulting products. Today, however, women are actively involved in farming as well. Agriculture has always been the main activity in Ireland. Large quantities of produce were imported all over the world. To this day, Irish farmers are known to use the old ways of farming. Some of the most basic products in Ireland are meat, milk, barley, turnips, wheat, etc. Ireland’s industry also thrives in textiles, pharmaceuticals, and even fishing.
Religion
Although there is no designated official religion in Ireland, there is a strong preference for Catholicism. However, you may find Roman Catholics, Christians, Jews, Presbyterians, and even other religions such as Islam.
Music and Dance
The Irish are known throughout the world for their love of music and dance. Traditional music still holds a strong priority on the country’s music scene, despite the influences of various music from abroad. There are a huge number of musical groups that play folk music. Famous among the musicians was Torla O’Carolan, who composed more than 200 compositions. Celtic music is also a part of Irish culture. Irish musicians are becoming famous all over the world, not only in their own country. In the twentieth century, the session-note (an ancient form of Irish narrative song) gained great importance. In classical Irish music, the excellent flutist James Galway distinguished himself. Classical Irish music was revived only a few years ago, mainly influenced by the division of the island into northern and southern parts. Northern Ireland now belongs to the United Kingdom and the southern part to the Republic of Ireland.
Irish dance is so beautiful that it can fascinate even those who do not have a special love for dance. Riverdance is a very popular group that performs many Irish dances. Tap dance remains popular here to this day. And as for the séance-nose dance, the old traditional tap dance and its modern variations, they are very popular all over the world.
Literature and art
Ireland is the land of a great many of the best writers of all time. Four Nobel Prize winners in literature (20th century) wrote their masterpieces in this beautiful place. Writers such as Oscar Wilde and William Butler made great contributions to literature. The art of cinema and painting is also an integral part of Irish culture. Irish art is evidenced by carvings in New Grange and medieval manuscripts.
Food
Stories of ancient Irish culture often mention honey. Of meat, the Irish preferred poultry. Potatoes became an integral part of the diet of the Irish working class. Today eating habits are shaped by the influence of the world. Although meat has always been a staple food in Ireland, fast food has also become popular. New Irish foods are being produced in large quantities to support a healthy diet among the Irish, mainly fresh vegetables.
Although traditional Irish culture is not as visible today because of pub culture, it can still be seen in different parts of Ireland.