Aran islands

Aran Islands

The Aran Islands or The Arans (Irish: Oileáin Árann) are a group of three islands located at the mouth of Galway Bay, on the west coast of Ireland. The largest island is Inishmore, the middle and second-largest is Inishmaan and the smallest and most eastern is Inisheer. Irish is a spoken language on all three islands, and is the language used naming the islands and their villages and townlands.

Geography

The Aran Islands are an extension of the Burren region in County Clare. The islands are composed of Carboniferous limestone, which is exposed to the elements and has been shaped by the Atlantic winds and waves. The islands are known for their ancient sites, including Dun Aonghasa, a prehistoric hill fort on Inishmore.

Culture

The Aran Islands are rich in the culture of Irish and Celtic heritage, with a long history of traditional music, dance, and Irish language. The islands are one of the last strongholds of the Irish language, and most island residents are bilingual in Irish and English.

Economy

The economy of the Aran Islands is primarily based on tourism, farming and fishing. The islands are known for their traditional Aran sweaters, which are a symbol of Irish heritage and are sold throughout Ireland and abroad.

Transportation

Transportation to the Aran Islands is by ferry from Rossaveal (County Galway) or Doolin (County Clare) or by air from Inverin.

See also

• List of islands of Ireland
• Culture of Ireland
• Geography of Ireland

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