North of continental Europe and west of Great Britain, Ireland is an island one third the size of New Zealand and two-thirds that of New York State. These are some of our characteristics:
Flags & national symbols: Irish Mist's home is in the southern part - the Republic of Ireland - with its tricolour green, white and orange flag. Also seen around the world are the country's national symbols - the heraldic harp and the shamrock (a three-leafed plant of the clover family).
The shamrock was originally used by the country's patron saint, St. Patrick, to demonstrate the meaning of the Holy Trinity. St. Patrick introduced Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century.
St. Patrick's Day, March 17: A national holiday in Ireland and a date celebrated by Irish communities all over the world.
Ancient and modern: Ireland has the best of both worlds, often intermingled. An ancient land, first settled 9000 years ago, the country has numerous historical sites and artifacts dating back many centuries. At the same time, Dublin is also of the world's young 'Cool' cities.
History, tradition and cultural heritage: The past is ever present in Ireland - in the buildings, ancient monuments, relaxed pace of life, music and entertainment. The result is a country where tradition is a feature of everyday modern life and whose legends from the past are treated with respect.
Where else would you find a stone in a remote castle wall visited by thousands of visitors a week from all over the world. It's called the 'Blarney Stone'.
The people: The sociability and friendliness of the Irish, their spontaneity and enjoyment of life, is reputed around the world. Talking with friends and strangers ("A stranger is but a future friend") is a national pastime. They call it the 'Craic' (pronounced 'crack').
The music: Irish country music, played in many pubs and bars, is typified by its infectious rhythm and traditional instruments - the fiddle (violin), flute, pipes and tin whistle.
Share all of this with us when you sip your glass of Irish Mist.
