Galway City: The City of The Tribes

In this episode of Whispering Stones, we explore Galway's rich and storied history, known as "The City of the Tribes." Journey back to medieval Ireland as we uncover Galway’s origins, from its foundation as Dún Gaillimhe in 1124 by the King of Connacht, to its transformation into a thriving trade hub under the control of fourteen powerful merchant families. These families, the famous Tribes of Galway, shaped the city's political, social, and economic landscape during the Middle Ages.We'll walk through Galway's narrow streets, past landmarks like Lynches Castle and the Spanish Arch, as we delve into the city's Hiberno-Norman heritage, rivalry with neighbouring Irish clans, and growing international trade with Spain and France. Discover how Galway’s strategic location on the River Corrib and Galway Bay helped it flourish into a major port, while the Tribes maintained strict control over who could enter the city.Through vivid storytelling, this episode brings the fascinating history of medieval Galway to life, highlighting its architectural wonders, cultural ties, and the lasting legacy of the Tribes that still echoes through the streets today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.