Culture of Belfast. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Every historic landmark of Belfast has its own miraculous history, and the magnificent Grand Opera is no exception. The building was constructed at the end of the 19th century. This is one of the most beautiful and eye-catching architectural places of interest in the city. The Grand Opera suffered severe damage during the World War II years, the building was nearly destroyed. However, the landmark was fully restored later, and, nowadays, the gorgeous Victorian-style building looks nearly exactly as on its opening day.

Belfast Castle is one more remarkable landmark of the region and one of the most important historic symbols of Belfast. The castle was built in the 12th century. The latest extensive restoration took place in the second part of the 19th century. There are many interesting stories connected with the beautiful castle. According to one of them, the castle had a very unusual keeper – a white cat. In the memory of the wonderful legend, there is a picturesque garden near the castle, and this garden is full of elegant sculptures of white cats. It’s also important to mention that the castle is free to visit, so everyone is welcome to explore its gorgeous halls and spacious corridors.

A landmark of an older period, Stormont Castle is one more must-visit destination. The building of this castle was finished in the second half of the 19th century. The castle is located not far from the Parliament building and is currently used as a government residence. Don’t forget to attend the beautiful park near the castle and admire its fantastic landscaped design. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Clifton House is another popular excursion destination in Belfast. This is one of the best landmarks of the Georgian architecture. Constructed in 1774, the mansion was initially a hospice. Currently, Clifton House is a home for elderly people. Belfast is also the location of one of the most prestigious educational facilities in the Great Britain - Queen's University. Queen Victoria founded this university, and first students appeared there in 1849. Nowadays, this fantastic building in Victorian style with lush landscape gardens is one of the major landmarks of Belfast. Quite an interesting fact – the old university takes care about numerous tourists who come to see this place. There is even a special small exhibition hall, as well as a charming souvenir shop, in its territory.

You will find one of the main historic symbols of Belfast on Royal Square. This is Albert Memorial Tower . The beautiful tower with the clock was built in 1870 by the order of Queen Victoria. Albert Memorial Tower is named after the husband of the queen – Prince Albert. The eye-catching 35-meter tower is a marvelous example of the gothic style, and elegant sculptures only make it look even more beautiful. Some people consider Albert Memorial Tower a “relative” of the famous Tower of Pisa because of a small tilt of the former that appeared due to a mistake of builders and architects.

Out of numerous cultural centers of the city, it’s important to mention Ulster Museum that is an important landmark of not only Belfast but also Northern Ireland. The collection of this museum is incredibly rich and multifaceted and includes numerous priceless archeological findings, precious historical artifacts and documents, and unique artworks. A collection of jewelry is one of the most interesting exhibitions of Ulster Museum. There is also a hall dedicated to the history of Egypt where visitors will be able to see the mummy of princess Takabuti, the age of which is 2,500 years. Fans of exciting excursions will find it interesting to visit the ancient Harland and Wolff Shipyard - the famous homeland of Titanic. The legendary ship was built there. Fans of Titanic will definitely enjoy interesting excursions that take place there regularly.