Take your kids on a virtual vacation to the land of storytelling, and learn about St. Patrick, Gaelic, and more!

Around Ireland
Ireland is divided into two separate countries -- the independent Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, which is part of Great Britain. In addition to a general introduction to Irish geography, the highlights of this site are the Myths and Language pages. Gaelic, the Irish language can be traced to the Celtic civilization of the Iron Age. Throughout Ireland there is renewed interest in this ancient native tongue. Although Gaelic is a beautiful language to listen to, it is not an easy one to learn. Unfortunately, many of the Geography pages and the Music page are still incomplete.

Gift of the Gab
"Blarney is celebrated the world over for a stone on the parapet that is said to endow whoever kisses it with the eternal gift of eloquence -- the 'Gift of the Gab.'" This wonderfully simple page explains the origin of the myth, and explores the castle of Blarney. A small link at the bottom of the page will lead you to Irish proverbs that exemplify the "Gift of the Gab." Be sure to find it. When you reach the last of the proverbs, you'll be transported to Ireland's Eye, which has excellent history and heritage sections.

Interpreting the Irish Famine
"It began with a blight of the potato crop that left acre upon acre of Irish farmland covered with black rot." The Irish Famine of 1846-1850 took as many as one million lives from starvation and disease, and this tragedy had a profound impact on the social and cultural structure of Ireland. In addition, it spurred new waves of immigration, shaping the histories of the United States and Britain. This well-written and illustrated treatise includes a glossary and an extensive online bibliography.

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