Gaeltacht Quarter, Belfast

Gaeltacht Quarter is a serene neighborhood west of Belfast. It has a big domination of the Irish, hence the widespread use of the Irish language. Most residents also have an impressive mastery of the native English language, which can be traced back in their history when they had to do the same for survival.
For a first time visitor, Gaeltacht is a great place to visit. Most of the institutions in the area are midsized, thanks to the small population of the area. Apart from one third-level institutions like, Coláiste Ollscoile Naomh Muire (St Mary’s University College), many of the other institutions are medium institutions.

Gaeltacht Quarter started gaining prominence in 2000 and has emerged as a hotbed of the Irish language and culture. The town needed transforming and reclaiming that had been lost over time. The town’s plans were laid out in 2002, originating from the Joint West Belfast/Greater Shankill Task Force. Over time, Gaeltacht Quarter began taking shape as the Department of Culture, Belfast City Council, and the Arts and Leisure adopted the initial plans for this neighborhood. The town slowly began to get shape attracting people from different places into this serene and promising land. At first, the town was simple, but within time, it has meticulously transformed and boasts of a thriving economy supported by an impressive population.

With music, intrigue, and great restaurants and bars, it is the heart of the Irish language and culture. Gaeltacht has a rich history and culture, which can be viewed from the Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich. The museum, originally built in 1991 and later renovated in 2010, is home to a beautiful art collection. Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich has been a custodian of this part of Ireland’s history for generations attracting visitors from within and far. Regularly, Gaeltacht Quarter holds celebrations to mark and celebrate its rich art and music, such as the August Féile (Festival). Annually, this neighborhood hosts one of the biggest European community festivals, the Féile an Phobail. Gaeltacht accommodates several sporting activities and events with a taste of the Irish and English culture.

Féile FM serves the area, a community radio airing in the neighborhood and across the Belfast region seven days a week. It has a tolerance for different genres of music, including Irish traditional music to pop and world music. Gaeltacht has produced incredible literature works, including famous poets and authors like Roddy Doyle and Patrick Mc Cabe. Having a tolerance for different cultures, the neighborhood has been a host to several renowned theater companies and playwrights. In addition to the periodic colorful and spectacular performances and festivals to celebrate and appreciate culture, Gaeltacht supports the same at different community levels hence the rich Irish culture.