Galway is a lively university town of around 75,000 inhabitants, situated on the river Corrib (where in some years it is possible to fish for wild salmon right in the city centre).

Galway began as a fishing village, but after an invasion by the Anglo-Norman forces of Richard de Burgo in the early 13th Century, it developed into a walled town. City status was granted by King Richard III in 1484. Around this time, 14 wealthy merchant families ruled the city, giving Galway its nickname "City of the Tribes".

The city is also a gateway to the Gaeltacht, an area in the West of Ireland where Irish (Gaeilge) is the first language. Galway is widely regarded as Ireland's most vibrant and entertaining city, because of its university population of around 25,000 and a substantial Arts community. There are numerous events throughout the year, including the very popular Arts Festival during the summer. Galway was recently awarded permanent UNESCO City of Film status.