The Emerald Isle Is Alive With Irish Symbols
Irish symbols are generally believed to be good luck. The shamrock, leprechauns and the color green - there are dozens of symbols associated with the Irish culture and all that Ireland stands for. But for those not well-versed in Irish symbols, there are others that are just as important and fascinating.
There are dozens of websites dedicated to information about Irish symbols, including those most commonly known. According to Lady Anna's Pages (www.roma-downey.com/symbols.htm) the Celtic harp (not the shamrock) is the oldest Irish symbol. The harp was used by minstrels for 12th-Century gentlefolk. Today, this symbol is used on both Irish coins and official government flags, documents and seals. The shamrock, arguably more widely recognized than the harp, is said to have been used by St. Patrick (patron saint of Ireland) to demonstrate the Christian Trinity. This is the reason the shamrock is associated with St. Patrick's Day.
Irish symbols are the focus of the Fantasy Ireland website (www.fantasy-ireland.com/Irish-symbols.html). The site includes all kinds of Celtic symbolism, but those interested in Irish symbols in particular might find an article about leprechauns of particular interest. A few facts: the leprechaun is really a shoemaker, stands about two feet tall and is a real prankster. This shoemaker sells his craft then stashes the money in a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
While some might not consider the Irish pub one of the Irish symbols, there's no doubt that the Emerald Isle is well known for the people's love of a good pub where they can stop in to have a pint. The Irish pub, according to information on Lady Anna's pages at www.roma-downey.com/irish-food-drink.htm, plays an important role in Irish society.
Another of the many well-known Irish symbols is the Irish flag. The tri-colored banner stands for hope, one color each for the two opposing groups in the country and the center white stripe for the "hope of lasting peace." For more detailed information on the history behind the Irish flag, go to Fantasy Ireland's website at www.fantasy-ireland.com/Irish-flag.html.
If you are interested in all things Irish, including Irish symbols, history and customs, look over the websites compiled at the Shamrock Irish Search Engine (www.ireland-information.com/engine). Or consider the possibility of an Irish vacation. Visit the official Irish tourism web page at www.tourismireland.com/us.
