Pictures of Ireland
Ireland, affectionately known as the Emerald Isle, is the third largest island in the European Union and it is divided into two countries, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. It is located to the East of the United Kingdom and has a total population of 6.2 million with 4.5 million people living in the Republic of Ireland. The country is further divided into thirty-two counties. The capital city of the Republic of Ireland is Dublin, which has an estimated population of one million.
The division between Northern Ireland and the Republic was the subject of numerous terrorist acts in the seventies and eighties but after an agreement was reached between both sides in 1998, peace has been predominant. There is a strong Irish culture expressed through Gaelic music and sports and this is combined with more western influences. This leads to a diverse combination of music, sport and film being present on the Island.
The economy of the Republic of Ireland has changed drastically over the past 20 years. During the nineties, unexpectedly large levels of economic growth occurred leading to the country being considered the best to live in the world according to the Economist. It has however suffered greatly during the financial crisis of the last two years with latest reports pointing to an unemployment rate of twelve and a half percent.
The country is home to three world heritage sites. Despite the often-dreary weather, people from all over the world visit the country to experience the unique Irish culture and to visit its many landmarks.
