Northern Ireland

Geographic location
one of the four countries of the UK
in the north-east of the island of Ireland
shares a border with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west.

Symbols

Shamrock
a three-leafed old white clover
According to a legend, the plant was used by Saint Patrick to illustrate the doctrine of the Trinity

St. Patrick
the most generally recognized patron saint of Ireland
Patrick's Day (17 March), supposedly the day of his death, is celebrated both in and outside of Ireland

Red Hand of Ulster
A legend tells of a time when Ulster was without a king. A boat race was arranged.
The one whose hand would be the first to touch the shore of Ulster would win the crown.
One contestant determined to be the next king. Seeing that he was losing the race, he cut off his hand and threw it to shore thus winning the race and crown.

the Ulster Banner
was used officially by the Government of Northern Ireland between 1953 and 1972
since 1972 has had no official status
still used to represent Northern Ireland in some sporting events

the Coat of Arms
was granted to the Government of Northern Ireland in 1924
in 1972 the arms went out of official use

Belfast
the capital of and the largest city in Northern Ireland and the second largest city in Ireland
the capital of Northern Ireland since 1921
situated on Northern Ireland's eastern coast
a centre for industry, as well as the arts, higher education and business

Londonderry
the second-biggest city in Northern Ireland
on the west of northern Ireland and near the border with Ireland
an old 6th century walled city
more usually known as simply Derry
several museums including Tower Museum
St Columb’s Cathedral built in 1633

Cities and towns

Castles
Northern Ireland has some of the finest castles on the island.
The earliest are from Norman times, but fortified homes continued to be built well into the 17th century

Places of Natural Beauty
The Giant's Causeway
Glenariff Forest Park
Silent Valley
The Mourne Mountains
The Marble Arch Caves
The Glens of Antrim
Lacada Point

Traditions
a strong cultural tradition: songs, dances, literature and festivals
welcoming hospitality
sports (especially golf and fishing)
traditional food