Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Glendalough - the Glen of the Two Lakes

Glendalough is one of the most important monastic sites in Europe dating back to the 7th century. This sacred site is famous for its tranquil beauty – set amidst the rolling countryside of County Wicklow, the garden of Ireland.

 











Sunday, July 27, 2014

Dublin - One of Europe's Most Youthful Cities


Dublin, the capital of Ireland, was established as a Viking settlement in the 9th century.

Dublin has more green spaces per square kilometer than any other European capital city, with 97% of city residents living within 300 meter of a park area.

Dublin has a vibrant nightlife and is reputedly one of Europe’s most youthful cities, with an estimate of 50% of citizens being younger than 25. There are many pubs across the city center. The best known area for nightlife is Temple Bar. Live music is popularly played on streets and at venues throughout Dublin in general, and the city has produced several musicians and groups of international success, including U2.

In 1759, the founding of the Guinness brewery resulted in a considerable economic gain for the city. For much of the time since its foundation, the brewery was Dublin’s largest employer. It became the largest brewery in Ireland in 1838, and the largest in the world by 1886, with an annual output of 1.2 million barrels. Although no longer the largest brewery in the world, it is still the largest brewery of stout in the world.