Iconic Irish symbols known all around the world

The Republic of Ireland is a historically rich landmark, with it being a cradle of culture for people all around the world. Whether we’re talking pop culture, history, clothing, music, Ireland is one of the most highly reputed places in Europe and around the world.

It’s very hard to choose what the most iconic element of Irish culture really is, but there are quite a few that stand out. Some are purely historical and are rarely used or remembered these days, some are incredibly useful to this day, and some have never gone out of style. But if you truly want to know what encapsulates Irish history, here are a few options you can look into if you want to get an insight into this rich culture.

The Guinness brand.

This is a worldwide renowned brand that started in Dublin in 1759, when Arthur Guinness bought a brewery in which he started crafting several types of ales and lagers, but in the end he focused on what has come to be known as stout, a rich dark beer which is to this date considered the national beer of Ireland. By 1883, Guinness had already become the largest brewery in Ireland, and it slowly started expanding to places all around the world.

But Guinness didn’t stop there. Despite making one of the most recognizable beers in the world, in 1955 the company began focusing on something else as well: publishing the famous Guinness Book of Records. Originally used to settle bar disputes, this book has come to be widely printed and people worldwide started to compete for their place in the Guinness Hall of Fame.

Aran sweaters

A piece of Irish history that can be easily worn and displayed regardless of the season, the Irish sweaters, also known as the Aran sweaters have become a staple in any person’s wardrobe. Simple, comfortable and elegant, the Irish sweater is one of the most culturally rich pieces of clothing around Europe. Created originally on the Aran Islands, west of mainland Ireland, they were originally crafted for the local fishermen to protect them against the harshness of the sea.

The unique patterns are one of the distinguishing characteristics of this timeless classic: each pattern represents a type of blessing. Be it luck, love, or protection, these patterns can be seen as a silent charm for the wearer. Originally they were made by the women of the Aran Islands for their husbands, but today you can choose any men’s Aran sweater online from the large variety of sizes, patterns, and colors.

The Leprechaun

This magical being is usually associated with the color green, the pot of gold and the rainbow. These little creatures of magic are one of the most well known elements of Irish culture, and are the embodiment of mischief and joy. In most Irish folklore stories, Leprechauns are seen as rogues who thrive on deceiving others.

They are known for hiding pots of gold at the end of the rainbow so that no one could ever find their treasures. If anyone still manages to capture a Leprechaun, they’re offered three wishes in exchange for releasing them, but beware: this is just another one of their tricks, since they want to use your own greed against you.

And don’t forget: if you see the rainbow, make sure you go looking for that pot of gold! Who knows, maybe this one isn’t such a far fetched myth after all…