There are a total of 32 counties on the Island. 26 in Southern Ireland and 6 in N.Ireland. Ireland is grouped into four provinces: Leinster, Munster, Connacht, and Ulster. Below is a short description of each of the counties of Ireland.
Listed in alphabetical order to include Northern Ireland.
Counties of Ireland
County Antrim (Northern Ireland):
Antrim, located in Northern Ireland, boasts stunning landscapes, including the Giant’s Causeway and the Glens of Antrim. Its rich history is evident in landmarks like Dunluce Castle.
County Armagh (Northern Ireland):
Known as the ecclesiastical capital, Armagh in Northern Ireland is steeped in history. The city is home to two St. Patrick’s Cathedrals and the Navan Fort archaeological site.
County Carlow:
Carlow, situated in the southeast, offers a blend of lush landscapes and historical sites. The Carlow Castle and Altamont Gardens are notable attractions.
County Cavan:
Cavan, known for its serene lakes and waterways, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark and Cavan Burren Park showcase its natural beauty.
County Clare:
Clare is famed for the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher along its Atlantic coastline. The Burren, a unique limestone landscape, and the lively town of Ennis add to its charm.
County Cork:
The largest county in Ireland, Cork, is a tapestry of diverse landscapes. From the vibrant city of Cork to the picturesque towns of Kinsale and Cobh, it offers a rich cultural experience.
County Derry/Londonderry (Northern Ireland):
Known for its historic city walls in Derry/Londonderry. It is home to the scenic Causeway Coastal Route and site the Mussenden Temple.
County Donegal:
Donegal, with its rugged coastline and mountains, is a haven for nature lovers. Glenveagh National Park and Slieve League Cliffs are among its natural wonders.
County Down (Northern Ireland)
Is best known for its scenic beauty and landmarks, including the majestic Mourne Mountains and the historic town of Downpatrick.
County Dublin:
Dublin, the capital city, is a vibrant hub of culture and history. From Trinity College and Dublin Castle to the lively Temple Bar district, it’s a blend of tradition and modernity.
County Fermanagh (Northern Ireland):
Fermanagh in Northern Ireland boasts tranquil lakes, including Lough Erne, and historic sites like Enniskillen Castle.
County Galway:
Galway boasts a lively arts scene set against the backdrop of Galway Bay. The Claddagh, Eyre Square, and the Aran Islands are notable attractions.
County Kerry:
Kerry, with its dramatic landscapes and the scenic Ring of Kerry, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Killarney National Park and Dingle Peninsula are must-visit destinations.
County Kildare:
Kildare, located near Dublin, and known for the Curragh Racecourse and the Japanese Gardens in the National Stud.
County Kilkenny:
Kilkenny, steeped in medieval history, is home to Kilkenny Castle. The historic Kilkenny City known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene.
County Laois:
Laois, with its rolling hills and heritage sites like the Rock of Dunamase, offers a glimpse into Ireland’s past.
County Leitrim:
Leitrim, characterized by serene lakes and rivers, provides a tranquil escape. Lough Key Forest Park and Glencar Waterfall are popular attractions.
County Limerick:
Limerick, with its medieval architecture, is home to King John’s Castle and the scenic River Shannon. The county blends history with a vibrant cultural scene.
County Longford:
Longford, situated in the Midlands, offers a peaceful retreat with attractions like Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre and the Royal Canal.
County Louth:
Louth, near the border with Northern Ireland, is known for the medieval town of Drogheda and the historical site of Monasterboice.
County Mayo:
Mayo, with its rugged landscapes and coastal beauty, features landmarks like Croagh Patrick and Achill Island.
County Meath:
Meath, rich in historical sites, includes the ancient tombs of Newgrange and Knowth, Trim Castle and the Hill of Tara.
County Monaghan:
Monaghan, in the northern part of the island, offers a blend of lakes and drumlin landscapes. Castle Leslie Estate and Rossmore Forest Park are popular destinations.
County Offaly:
Offaly, in the heart of Ireland, boasts historic sites like Clonmacnoise and Birr Castle, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage.
County Roscommon:
Roscommon, known for its lakes and historic sites, includes attractions like Strokestown Park and Lough Key Forest and Activity Park.
County Sligo:
Sligo, with its poetic landscapes, is home to Yeats Country and the impressive Benbulben mountain. Sligo Abbey and Strandhill Beach are key attractions.
County Tipperary:
Tipperary, with its scenic countryside, is home to the Rock of Cashel and the historic town of Clonmel. The county is rich in cultural heritage.
County Tyrone (Northern Ireland):
Tyrone, in Northern Ireland, features the Sperrin Mountains and the Ulster American Folk Park, providing a glimpse into Irish-American history.
County Waterford:
Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, is renowned for Waterford Crystal and historic landmarks like Reginald’s Tower.
County Westmeath:
Westmeath, dotted with lakes, features the historic Belvedere House and Gardens and the picturesque town of Athlone.
County Wexford:
Wexford, with its scenic coastline, includes attractions like Hook Lighthouse and the historic town of Enniscorthy.
County Wicklow:
Wicklow, known as the “Garden of Ireland,” boasts the Wicklow Mountains National Park and the scenic Glendalough
Counties of Ireland
A nation divided
The region comprising most of the island of Ireland is politically divided into two entities: Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, and the Republic of Ireland, which is a sovereign nation and a member of the European Union.
Counties of Ireland ~Northern Ireland:
Geography:
Northern Ireland is situated in the northeastern part of the island of Ireland. It shares a border with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and east.
Capital and Major Cities:
The capital and largest city of Northern Ireland is Belfast. Other significant cities include Derry/Londonderry, Lisburn, and Newry.
Political Status:
Northern Ireland is one of the four constituent countries of the United Kingdom, alongside England, Scotland, and Wales. The political landscape has been historically marked by the complex relationship between unionists, who support remaining part of the United Kingdom, and nationalists/republicans, who advocate for a united Ireland.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
Northern Ireland has a rich cultural heritage with influences from Irish and British traditions. Characterized by events including the Troubles. This was a period of political conflict and violence that lasted from the late 1960s to the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.
Counties of Irealnd ~Republic of Ireland:
Geography:
The Republic of Ireland occupies most of the island of Ireland. It shares a border with Northern Ireland to the north surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Irish Sea, and the Celtic Sea.
Capital and Major Cities:
The capital and largest city of the Republic of Ireland is Dublin. Other major cities include Cork, Limerick, and Galway.
Political Status:
After the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1922, the Republic of Ireland achieved independence from the United Kingdom. It emerged as a sovereign nation, complete with its own government and political institutions.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
Ireland known for its rich cultural heritage, including literature, music, dance, and folklore. The country has a strong sense of national identity and has made significant contributions to world literature and art.
The political status and relationships between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have and continue to be complex.
For more information following this link; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Counties_of_Ireland