10. Symbols of Ireland II

It’s the combination of the traditional Christian cross with a ring (a solar symbol of energy, a life source) surrounding the intersection. It became popular for funerary monuments and also spreading well beyond Ireland.

The Claddagh ring, originated in the Irish village of Claddagh, is traditionally given to represent timeless love (the heart), loyalty (the crown) and friendship (the hands). The principal legend about the origins of the ring concern Richard Joyce, a silversmith from Galway in the 18th century. He was captured and enslaved by Algerian Corsairs. He never forget his lover and when he finally broke free fourteen years later, he went back to his motherland and offered this ring to his sweetheart as a commitment.

It is a small cross usually woven from rushes, typically with four arms tied at the ends and a woven square in the middle. These crosses are associated with Brigid of Kildare, one of the patron saints of Ireland and are traditionally made in Ireland on St Brigid’s feast day, 1 February, marking the beginning of spring. Traditionally they were set over doorways and windows to protect the home from any kind of harm.

These symbols of Ireland have no beginning and no end, like nature. It’s not clearly defined where they came from or what they mean, exactly. They sometimes signify continuing life cycle. Regardless, they are always endless.

A leprechaun is a type of fairy in Irish folklore. They are usually depicted as little bearded men, wearing a coat and hat, who partake in mischief. They are solitary creatures who spend their time making and mending shoes and have a hidden pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. If captured by a human, they often grant three wishes in exchange for their freedom.