The Spanish Arch, Galway is a major attraction in the city of Galway in Ireland. The arch provides an insight into the history of the past when it used to face marauders from the sea. A visit to Spanish Arch, Galway must be included in ones itinerary so as to learn how in ancient times it served as a bastion.
The Spanish Arch stands on the left bank of the Corrib, a place where Galway’s river meets the sea. The arch is a remainder of a famous 16th century bastion. The bastion was built to the walls of the town to protect merchant ships from looting the land. At this time, it was known as Ceann and Bhalla or the Head of the Wall. The present name Spanish Arch comes from the last century. It was rechristened it in reference to the former merchant trade with Spain. In the last century Spanish galleons often docked under its protection.
The Spanish Arch, located on the banks of the river Corrib, was built in the year 1584. However, many historians believe that the Spanish Arch is, in fact, a misnomer, as there is no established proof of association between the Spanish in Galway and the building of the Arch. In the past it was known as The Blind Arch. The Arch features a wooden sculpture, called Madonna of the Quays, which was sculpted by the well known artist, Claire Sheridan. Sheridan lived in the adjacent building during the 50’s. Today The Spanish Arch in Galway is home to the Galway City Museum. In fact, the museum snuggles into one of its impressive walls.
Attractions which date back to the times of the Spanish Arch include the famous St Nicholas Church. St. Nicholas was built upon the ruins of an older structure. It is dedicated to St. Nicholas, the 4th century Archbishop of Myra who is the patron saint of children, merchants, sailors, scholars and virgins. The fact that Nicholas was also the patron saint of merchants made him the clear choice for patron saint of Galway. St. Nicholas was known for his boundless generosity. To today’s world, he is best known to us today as Santa Claus.
Detailed online information on Spanish Arch, Galway can be obtained in travel.mapsofworld
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