Galway, city, seat of Co. Galway, W
Republic of Ireland, on Galway Bay near the mouth of the Corrib River.
Industries include tourism, food processing, flour milling, medical
instruments, computers, motors, and the production of textiles and
furniture. Agricultural produce, salmon, herring, marble, and woolen goods
are exported. Galway was first incorporated by Richard II of England in the
late 14th cent. In 1651 the town was taken by parliamentary forces, and in
1691 it was defeated by William III after the battle of Aughrim. For
centuries Galway traded extensively with Spain, and Spanish influence is
noticeable in the architecture. The Church of St. Nicholas dates from 1320.
The Lynch Stone behind the church commemorates the execution by the lord
mayor, James Lynch Fitzstephen, of his own son for murder. Claddagh, once
noted for its unique customs, is a quarter of the town said to be the oldest
fishing village in Ireland. Noteworthy is the edifice (1849) of University
College, a constituent of the National Univ. of Ireland.
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