Belfast in County Antrim is the capital of Northern Ireland and has a long history of trouble and dispute. Despite this history it is a beautiful city with much to see and do when visiting there. It has been called Linenopolis because one of the industries that have been prominent throughout the ages is Irish linen making.

There are many other industries in Belfast that has made it the large and rich city that it is today. Rope has been manufactured there as is tobacco and the city has been noted for many years as being a great shipyard. The company that built the RMS Titanic, Harland and Wolff was stationed on the harbor and this is where the ship started its ill fated maiden voyage. During the beginning of the 20th century Belfast was the most populated city in Ireland and it has not changed since.

Belfast has many historical sites that one can explore. The Giant Ring is a 5000 year old henge. There is evidence that people were inhabited the town during the Bronze Age and you can still see some of the Iron Age forts in the hills around the city. During the Middle Ages the city began to grow bigger. In 1921 the settlement was given status as a city.

Cultural Quarters were set up in 2001 in order to aid tourists in exploring the city. Performing arts are the center of the stage in the Cathedral Quarter found near St. Anne’s Cathedral also the Church of Ireland. If you want to hear the native Irish language be sure to find the Gailtract Quarter. Queen’s College is in the Queens Quarter where you will find many things suitable to the college age population. You will also find the Ulster Museum and the Botanic Gardens there. Travel the Golden Mile and eat at some of the great restaurants and drink at the pubs. You can also shop to your hearts content at several shopping centers in the area. Go to the former Queen’s Island, now called Belfast Harbor to see the Titanic Quarter where the old shipyards are being made into fancy apartments and condominiums with restaurants and an entertainment area. The Titanic museum should be opening soon if it has not already opened.

The Botanic Gardens is a sublime example of Victorian Era Gardens. The Palm House is one of the oldest glass and cast iron green house known to be in existence. You can view a jungle garden that has been there since 1889 and is very lush. See the rose garden, the Japanese Garden, Lady Diana’s Garden, a typical Victorian walled garden and the tropical ravine.

Take the kids to the Belfast zoo to see all kinds of animals, many of which are endangered, in their own natural habitat. There are many other sites to see within the city limits. City Hall can not be missed with its magnificent dome in the center of the city. You can get a guided tour during weekdays. Go to one of the oldest pubs in town, the Crown Liquor Saloon. It was built in 1894 and has most beautiful stain glass windows and the wood in the bar and tables and on the walls has scrolling you do not see today. Take in a play or musical performance at the Grand Opera House built in 1894. You can get a tour of the building on weekends only. The Linen Hall Library is a privately own library but still can be seen. You can see a variety of Irish Linens and see how it was made then have a seat in the cafe for a cup of coffee. Make sure to see the exhibit of the Titanic in the harbor area.

Belfast has much to offer in history and entertainment. The city is a show stopper and since it is safe to visit today, you should take opportunity to get to know the city. Have a great time getting to know a wonderful city.

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