Irish Culture from A-Z

by Leigh Maher

The Irish culture is as unique and diverse as any culture you may find across the globe. It has its own rich history, foods, drink, music and art and is so much more than the stereotypical shamrocks and leprechauns so many associate with the country.

If you want to learn more about the Emerald Isle's culture that reaches around the world, read on and enjoy. There may not be a cultural reference for every letter of the alphabet listed here, but the cultural gems will expand on what you thought you knew about Ireland's cultural goings ons.

A-Abbey Theater: The Abbey Theater, also known as the National Theater of Ireland, is located in Dublin. The Abbey is a special theater, open since 1904, and was the first state-subsidized theater in the English speaking world. The theater remains closely tied with the Celtic revival of writers, many of whom were involved with the creation and foundation of the theater and have had plays showcased there as well.

C-Cork Jazz Festival: Now called the Guinness Jazz Festival, the Cork Jazz festival began back in 1978. Held every year in October, the festival welcomes over 40, 000 music fans who have come to appreciate the music of greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, Buddy Rich, Sonny Rollins, John McLaughlin and many more.

D-The Dubliners: An Irish folk band, The Dubliners were formed in 1962. They originally started playing at O'Donoghue's Pub in Dublin. The band was not just beloved in their native land, but made a name for Irish folk music across Europe and in the United States. Their band leader and an Irish icon, Ronnie Drew died in August of this year (2008).

G-Gaelic football: Along with hurtling, Gaelic football is one of the most popular sports in Ireland. This form of football, played mainly in Ireland, consists of two teams of fifteen players, and a goal can be scored by kicking or striking the ball with your hand into a goal. Similar to rugby, the ball can be carried up the field by carrying it, dropping and toe kicking, or hand passing to teammates. The level of tackling permitted is more liberal than that of traditional European soccer, but less than that of rugby.

I-Islands of Ireland: If you are one of the people who think that Ireland is just one big island, think again. The country has many smaller little island scattered around its coastline, each one as unique as the rest. The Aran Islands are comprised of Árainn, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr. Acaill is a popular destination for natives and tourist alike, because of the wide variety of activities there. Beginish Island is deserted and uninhabited, and is a lovely spot to wander around and explore. Dursey Island is incredibly rugged, and is accessible by Ireland's only cable car. There are many other Irish islands waiting to be explored.

J-Jewelry: Celtic jewelry only continues to increase in popularity as the years go by, and there is no better place to find Claddagh rings, Celtic cross necklaces and Celtic engagement rings than by a jeweler residing in the Emerald Isle. Renowned for their craftsmanship and quality, jewelry found in Ireland is one of a kind and a wonderful acknowledgement of the Irish culture.

M-Mead: Mead, a fermented beverage made from honey, water and yeast, is especially popular in Irish culture. Its sweet flavor and often spiced accenting make it a favorite for Irish holidays and celebration.

N-Newgrange Megalithic Passage Tomb: This historic tomb in Ireland was built in approximately 3200 BC. This massive structure, shaped somewhat like a kidney bean and stretching out for over an acre, is thought to have taken a workforce of 300 people 20 years to construct.

P-Potato: Although probably expected, it would be difficult to talk about the history of Irish culture without mentioning the potato. It was introduced to the country of Ireland in the 17th century, and eventually became the main food crop of the working classes. During the 18th century, the damp Irish climate encouraged the spread of potato blight, which led to shortages and famine. From 1845-1849, the population was undone by starvation, famine and disease.

W-Jameson Irish Whiskey: First distilled in 1780, Jameson is a single distillery Irish whiskey produced in Cork, Ireland. It is the best selling Irish whiskey in the world.

About the author: L Maher is a content writer who writes and researches about gorgeous and extraordinary Celtic jewelry, as well as Irish culture and history. Get more information regarding Celtic jewelry.