County Antrim

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County Antrim (Irish: Contae Aontroma ) is one of six counties that form Northern Ireland. Adjoined to the north-east shore of Lough Neagh, the county covers an area of 3,046 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 618,000. It is one of the thirty-two traditional counties of Ireland, lying within the historical province of Ulster.

Geography[edit | edit source]

County Antrim is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and east, the River Bann to the west, and Lough Neagh to the south-west. The county's landscape is diverse, featuring the Antrim Plateau, the Glens of Antrim, and the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highest point in the county is Trostan, which stands at 550 meters.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of County Antrim dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Neolithic settlements. The county played a significant role during the Plantation of Ulster in the early 17th century, which saw the settlement of English and Scottish Protestants. The county town is Antrim, although the largest city is Belfast, which is also the capital of Northern Ireland.

Economy[edit | edit source]

County Antrim has a mixed economy, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The county is known for its production of linen, whiskey, and shipbuilding, particularly in Belfast. Tourism is also a vital sector, with attractions such as the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Bushmills Distillery.

Culture[edit | edit source]

The cultural heritage of County Antrim is rich and varied, with influences from both Irish and Scottish traditions. The county is home to numerous festivals, including the Belfast Festival at Queen's and the Larne Drama Festival. Traditional music, dance, and sports such as Gaelic games and hurling are also popular.

Transport[edit | edit source]

County Antrim is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The M2 motorway links Belfast to the north of the county, while the A26 road connects it to the west. The county is served by two airports: Belfast International Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport. The Port of Belfast is one of the busiest in the UK, handling a significant volume of freight and passenger traffic.

Education[edit | edit source]

The county has a range of educational institutions, from primary and secondary schools to higher education establishments. Queen's University Belfast and Ulster University have campuses in the county, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.