Spanish Arch & The Long Walk
An Póirse Caoch
The surviving arch of the city walls built in 1584; beside it, the Long Walk's row of colorful houses along the mouth of the Corrib is Galway's most iconic postcard view.
The Spanish Arch is a remnant of an extension of Galway's city walls built in 1584. Its name is said to come from the city's trade with Spain, and it is a free landmark. Just beyond the arch is the mouth of the River Corrib, with the former site of the Claddagh fishing village on the opposite bank. Along the river, the Long Walk's row of colorful houses reflected in the water is Galway's most photogenic scene. On sunny days the riverside grass fills with people sunbathing, and swans often glide past. The Galway City Museum sits right next door, and the two can be visited together.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Galway City Museum
- Galway Latin Quarter
- St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church
- Galway Cathedral
- Eyre Square
- Salthill Promenade
- Dunguaire Castle
- Ross Errilly Friary