Interior View of Spanish Arch

Spanish Arch

Tourist attraction Historical landmark

One of the Most Revieweds in Galway


Address

2 The Long Walk, Galway, Ireland

Website

www.galwaytourism.ie

Rating on Google Maps

4.20
(2166K reviews)


Working Hours

  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: (New Year's Day), Open 24 hours, Hours might differ
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

Visitor Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Galway (26) city (18) arch (17) area (14) history (14) Spanish (13) river (13) Arch (13) beautiful (11) great (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Gabriela Reyna En E. 2 years ago on Google • 213 reviews
    Galway is beautiful but this Spanish arch is magic place, the only thing is that recently for long time actually it has always construction activities going on and it looks like they no planning to leave. I hope that they take out all the construction stuff soon and so we can enjoy the Spanish arch it self because is beautiful spot where the community enjoy going there for a sunny day and have some lunch while sitting on the grass. Love it.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katie L. 2 years ago on Google • 172 reviews
    Beautiful area to sit back and relax. In really good condition considered how old it is. Plenty of seagulls wanting attention and not being afraid to be by us
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 charlie i. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing.. I enter Galway & the Sun comes with me. Lovely area, with beautiful singers & music around. Enjoy as *Time* flies.. make the most all this. ♥️
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Ruby and m. 2 years ago on Google
    It was a beautiful day in Galway, never seen this piece of historical importance before, it's a bit of old wall that goes back centuries, but to be honest there's better things to see than this and I love history and old buildings, there is the bay to see so it's not all bad.....
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brigid F. 3 years ago on Google
    Very historical area the old fishing market on site. One can view the original wall of Galway City the museum is on site with a café for teas and lunch. The river Corrib flows past with fast moving rapids. There is a flock of swans residents on the river and the old fishing boat s still in use can be viewed.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fergal J. 1 year ago on Google • 415 reviews
    The Spanish Arch opens onto a plaza which was the place where the citizens of Galway traded with the Gaelic residents of the Claddagh and beyond. Some parts of history are embarrassing and dishonourable and the walls of Galway fall into that category. The walls were built to keep the Gaelic Irish out of the city and, o. The seaward side of the arch, the Long Walk of today was the Long Wall of yesteryear and was built to prevent the people of Claddagh entering the city from the river bank. There was a rope footbridge connecting Claddagh to the city. This was where the bridge is today. Older images of Galway often show the fisherfolk standing in the plaza area selling fish to the citizens
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carmina 3 weeks ago on Google • 1470 reviews New
    Un pedazo de la historia

  • 5/5 Amal Paul s. 3 years ago on Google
    The arch is located at the bottom on quay street on the banks of the river. Plenty of activity in the area by way of restaurants and bars. Id consider this more of a meeting point than an attraction so to speak.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mary A. 2 years ago on Google
    Musician playing under the bridge and an antique car show on the other side. Beautiful day in Galway for a walk.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Jadiel M. 3 years ago on Google
    Positioned on the left bank of the Corrib River, the Spanish Arch is one of Galways historical gems, dating back to pre-medieval times. It was built in 1584 and this misnomer is thought to be a reference to the former merchant trade with Spain and Spanish galleons, which often docked here. Besides the history, in my opinion it is not worth a visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rekkana B. 2 years ago on Google
    A very picturesque place for the lovers of nature. Soothes the soul.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Conor M. 3 years ago on Google
    Perfect place to sit down and relax. great view of the harbour
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michel B. 3 years ago on Google
    Perfect place to come and relax. Breath of fresh air with history in it.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 V H. 3 weeks ago on Google • 958 reviews New
    Located on the left bank of the Corrib River, stands an arch that was once part of the city walls, it takes its name from the ships that traded at the quays.

  • 5/5 Bea E. 1 year ago on Google • 365 reviews
    Love the Latin quarter in Galway city, the coastal so nice. Has a great vibe, festival miid all summer, very crowded as well. Loads of tourists, bit still very charming. No wonder its one of the most beautiful city in Europe. I've been here already 10years ago, still love it. Highly recommend😍🌄
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 paul n. 5 months ago on Google • 230 reviews
    We didn't go to Nimmos but sat on the Quayside and watched the world go by. Seen the sunset and all was good. Seems it is the place to find inspiration in writing and put your troubles and woes in place.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 B. K. R. 8 months ago on Google • 221 reviews
    The arch looks cool, but it’s not something I would go out of my way for. It is just part of a building like it was a gate in the past, and you almost can’t even tell it’s historical. We passed through it to get to the museum, and lots of people were passing through or sitting on the edge of the street over the water. Definitely a nice view.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kristine K. 1 year ago on Google • 77 reviews
    Take a moment to enjoy this historically significant artifact in Galway City. I had a great time imagining its impact on unsuspecting enemies attempting to gain entry. There are a couple pubs with outdoor seating just beyond the arch. Have a pint and enjoy the local musicians performing under the arch!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Patrick S M. 11 months ago on Google • 64 reviews
    Nice to watch the river flowing in at high tide. Sit with a coffee and contemplate the next move.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Siphesihle M. 2 years ago on Google • 60 reviews
    The Docks in Galway, including the Spanish Arch, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. The area is located along the River Corrib, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful views of the water. Visitors can take a stroll along the river and watch the boats come and go, or take a tour on one of the many boats available for hire. The Docks also host several events throughout the year, including live music and cultural festivals, making it a great spot for entertainment. The Spanish Arch, an iconic landmark located in the area, is a 16th-century structure that was originally built as a defensive barrier to protect the city's quays. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction and a great spot for photography. The arch is also home to the Galway City Museum, which offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and heritage. The area is home to several restaurants and pubs, offering a variety of dining options, from casual seafood to fine dining. The Docks also host several events throughout the year, including live music and cultural festivals, making it a great spot for entertainment. The area is also home to a number of art galleries and shops, which sell a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs. Overall, the Docks in Galway, including the Spanish Arch, is a great spot to experience the city's maritime heritage, culture, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sara 3 months ago on Google • 43 reviews New
    El arco español formaba parte de la muralla que rodeaba Galway originalmente, cuando los anglonormandos se instalaron en la ciudad. Se le puso este nombre posteriormente en honor a la ayuda que recibieron de España durante la hambruna, y por los intercambios comerciales entre ambos países. Desde este arco se defendía la ciudad de posibles invasiones, bien tapiándolo con piedras (como se ve en el arco ciego), lanzando flechas desde las aspilleras o lanzando rocas, agua hirviendo o aceite hirviendo desde sus orificios de la parte alta.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carol B. 2 years ago on Google
    We had a beautiful day ,Spanish Arch is a lovely place for meeting friends .
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Paulo C. 2 years ago on Google
    Two stone archs by the river Corrib. The place is by the end of the touristic street of the city. We got lucky to be there on a sunny day and saw a lot of people enjoying the sun around the place. Good for pictures and has a pleasant sorrounding.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lorcan S. 3 years ago on Google
    Just a lovely space to be in, steeped in history & culture. A great location to eat & drink and try your hand at people-watching...
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Flynn On T. 1 year ago on Google
    It was constructed in 1584 as a part of the extension of the city wall from Martin’s Tower to the bank of the River Corrib, to protect the city’s quays. The Long Walk, which is a promenade on the other side of the Arch, was full of people just strolling along or enjoying the sunshine of this fabulous day!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gaurav T. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful arch on the corrib river bank with scenic beauty and enhancing beauty of city. Nice place to visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian G. 3 years ago on Google
    This is a beautiful restaurant on the Beach. I thought I was ordering Spaghetti with Squid and tomato sauce. I got Squid in the shape of spaghetti and the Sauce was delicious, I would say tomato and lobster sauce. I am sorry the empty bowl is all that's left of the Squid 🐙🦑.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Anand 6 months ago on Google • 274 reviews
    Small little structure is erect from the early period signifying the importance of the city to be used for trading .The structure is not anything impressive but just historical in nature. There is a good view of the river flowing from the area which deserves a quick stroll. You might even miss the sight while you are walking.

  • 5/5 TK C. 1 year ago on Google • 263 reviews
    Being "Spanish" is not that obvious. A place to get out of the rain and be musical is what it seems. Masonry art talent is evident. And the local fly fishing on the Corrib looks great. And we stopped at a McDonald's in Galway, Ireland 🇮🇪.

  • 4/5 Wen T. 3 months ago on Google • 249 reviews New
    西班牙拱門,目前已經有400多年的歷史,是由西班牙人建造,故稱之此拱門。原是古城牆的一部分,現今只殘存此座城門。 我們到達時是傍晚,夕陽西下映照在大片湖水中,拱門顯得更為古樸。

  • 3/5 EH 5 months ago on Google • 248 reviews
    Arch is overrated but it’s nice to see the waters for a short stroll post dinner at the Latin Quarter nearby.

  • 5/5 Hardik P. 1 month ago on Google • 230 reviews New
    After all these years it’s still standing.

  • 5/5 mav3rick 6 months ago on Google • 185 reviews
    Good place to relax.. The Spanish Arch is a charming historical site in the heart of Galway. Dating back to 1584, it is a fascinating piece of the city’s medieval walls and a testament to Galway’s rich maritime history. The structure itself is simple yet sturdy, with two arches that have stood the test of time. The arch is located in a picturesque area by the River Corrib, offering scenic views and a pleasant atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk or to take some memorable photos. The nearby Latin Quarter is vibrant and full of life, with plenty of shops, pubs, and street performances adding to the experience.

  • 5/5 Kurt G. 4 months ago on Google • 177 reviews
    Don't skip the free museum right next to the arch. Learn the history of this gate and the city wall.

  • 5/5 Paddy M. 5 months ago on Google • 98 reviews
    Iconic Galway landmark, always lots of activities around this area.

  • 3/5 Laura R. 5 months ago on Google • 83 reviews
    M'ha decebut una mica. Potser perquè davant hi havia un mercadillo i no es veia gaire bé.

  • 5/5 Luke 5 months ago on Google • 64 reviews
    There's a ton of history here to learn about and absorb if you have the time!

  • 4/5 Ann T. 5 months ago on Google • 59 reviews
    Near the museum , nice place

  • 5/5 Kacie C. 4 months ago on Google • 56 reviews
    So peaceful at this spot. Beautiful views! So glad I visited!

  • 4/5 Levy M. 4 months ago on Google • 49 reviews
    The arch itself is pretty normal, but with the right amount of information (in my case provided by Mike from the Tribes Free Walking Tour), you can really enjoy the stop and abstract the history in it.

  • 5/5 Jason W. 2 months ago on Google • 28 reviews New
    They were doing some construction on one side, but still a cool piece of history!

  • 3/5 thomas c. 1 year ago on Google • 27 reviews
    Shame it was not highlighted more but easy to get to and ok explanation about next to part of the medieval town wall. Next to the end of the wall is a vacant lot which could do with tidying up. Overall nice to see an original part of the harbour town wall.

  • 5/5 Quasi M. 5 months ago on Google • 20 reviews
    Great menu for brunch, and the cakes ....!!!! Decent price given quality of food and the venue, Service was good and while convivial it wasn't too loud so we could easily have a conversation. Did I mention the deserts? Like the main course they were simple but excellent quality of ingredients and skilfull prep made the whole meal fare more impressive than I had expected for a tourist magnet. Ard bia lives up to its reputation.

  • 4/5 Tim H. 6 months ago on Google • 19 reviews
    I imagined it a bit more “impressive“, in the end it is just an arch, but worth a visit though. Sometimes, musicians play the guitar there or sing.

  • 5/5 daisy j. 9 months ago on Google • 15 reviews
    Must see destination for anyone who is visiting the Galway city, river flowing right beside the arch,u can enjoy ur evening with the cup of coffee on a river side

  • 5/5 jaja h. 5 months ago on Google • 15 reviews
    it was a beautiful city

  • 3/5 Myo Young K. 2 months ago on Google • 5 reviews New
    Historically speaking this is pretty cool but was a bit hard to find and nothing really awe inspiring.

  • 5/5 Anne M. 2 months ago on Google • 4 reviews New
    The Spanish Arch sums up what Galway is. Incredible historical location.

  • 3/5 Dieter S. 5 months ago on Google • 3 reviews
    In the 18th century the Eyre family of Eyrecourt, County Galway, created an extension of the quays called The Long Walk and created the arches to allow access from the town to the new quays. The designation "Spanish" is not historical to this period and was likely known as the Eyre Arch when built. In 1755, the arches were partially destroyed by the tsunami generated by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Until 2006, part of the Arch housed the Galway City Museum. At that time, the museum was moved to a new, dedicated building located just behind the Arch. The Long Walk is a promenade to one side of the Arches.[1]

  • 5/5 Lauren S. 1 year ago on Google • 3 reviews
    As a local what I want you to know that makes the place special is in good weather it is a drinking spot for hundreds of people, people will play live music and speakers. It's very relaxed and fun and beuatiful. If your ever in visiting in good weather grab a beer from the off licence and enjoy them there.

  • 5/5 Dermot O B. 3 years ago on Google
    Did the bus trip, and train trip. Galway is fantastic. Highly recommended

  • 4/5 Eve R. 2 years ago on Google
    Visited here yesterday. It's not very impressive to look at but the history and background are interesting and the surroundings are pleasant. Enjoyed looking at the trees and plants outside the museum nearby.

  • 5/5 Algerian in I. 3 years ago on Google
    Peaceful place to hung out

  • 4/5 Paul M E. 3 years ago on Google
    Visited the museum with the history of Ireland and Galway, worth a look with free admission.

  • 4/5 Anne D. 3 years ago on Google
    Very quiet when I visited last night. Lovely evening spent near the water.

  • 5/5 Michel V. 1 year ago on Google
    Interesting to read the plaque about the history. Very windy as it is right next to the sea. If you are in town, nice to visit.

  • 4/5 Nick T. 1 year ago on Google
    Neat to see, but it's only a quick walk-by. Nothing elaborate here.

  • 5/5 Sandra H. 1 year ago on Google
    Really nice place and staff, went Sunday for brunch, had to queue a little while but definitely worth the wait. A deliciously different menu. Highly recommended will be back

  • 3/5 Admin 1 year ago on Google
    Could be so much more beautiful, some new archeture and unloved buildings take away from its historic context. Lovely location beside the river

  • 5/5 Anne F. 1 year ago on Google
    Historical area to wander around at the river shannon. Many cafe restaurants to choose from if hungry.

  • 3/5 Damian C. 1 year ago on Google
    It's an historic arch that you can walk through. Pretty enough but I wouldn't make a special trip. The surrounding area is nice and busy with plenty of tourist options.

  • 3/5 Charlie W. 1 year ago on Google
    Old arch from the times of soldiers protecting the city. Great place to wait out a short rain. Museum is just a few feet away but be aware it’s closed on Monday’s. No charge to see.

  • 3/5 Kraig F. 1 year ago on Google
    It was okay. Not a whole lot to see. Neat to see architecture from so long ago.

  • 4/5 akhil m. 1 year ago on Google
    It's a nice place in Galway. Nothing much. But the view is nice and there is a museum. You can just sit and enjoy it for sometime. There is some boating as some (But I haven't tried it yet)

  • 5/5 Betty H. 8 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    Wir waren begeistert von der lebendigen und schön geschmückten Innenstadt von Galway und schlossen hier unseren Besuch ab.


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