Ireland, also known as Éire in Irish, is a country in Western Europe occupying most of the island of Ireland. It shares a border to the north with Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. Ireland is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. The capital and largest city is Dublin.
Ireland is located to the west of Great Britain, from which it is separated by the Irish Sea. The country’s geography is diverse, with the central plains surrounded by coastal mountains. Ireland’s highest peak is Carrauntoohil, which stands at 1,038 meters. The country is also known for its lush vegetation, earning it the nickname ‘the Emerald Isle’.
Ireland has a rich and complex history that dates back to 10,000 BC with the arrival of hunter-gatherers. The country was Christianized in the 5th century by Saint Patrick and was later invaded by the Normans in the 12th century. Ireland was part of the United Kingdom until 1922 when it gained independence following a war of independence. The country remained neutral during World War II and joined the European Union in 1973.
Ireland has a population of approximately 4.9 million people. The country is predominantly Catholic and Irish is the first official language, although English is more commonly spoken. Ireland has a rich cultural heritage, with contributions to literature, music, and dance. The country is known for its folklore, particularly the stories of leprechauns and fairies.
Ireland has a mixed economy, with a strong emphasis on services, followed by industry and agriculture. The country is known for its high-tech industries and is home to many multinational corporations. Ireland is one of the world’s largest exporters of pharmaceuticals and software. Despite its small size, the country has a strong economy and is one of the wealthiest countries in the world per capita.
Education in Ireland is compulsory from ages 6 to 16 or until students have completed three years of second-level education. The Irish education system is made up of primary, second, third-level and further education. State-funded education is available at all levels, unless you choose to send your child to a private institution.
Ireland is a parliamentary democracy. The President of Ireland is the head of state, while the head of government is the Taoiseach. The Oireachtas is the bicameral national parliament composed of the President of Ireland and the two Houses of the Oireachtas: Seanad Éireann (Senate) and Dáil Éireann (House of Representatives).
