Overview
Part of Galway's medieval walls built in 1584, the Spanish Arch originally consisted of four arches protecting the port's wine and brandy trade — two remain today. The name comes from the bustling 16th-17th century trade between Galway and Spain, when Spanish galleons regularly docked here. Records indicate that the 1755 Lisbon tsunami reached Galway and damaged part of the arch. Today it stands where the River Corrib meets Galway Bay, serving as a popular meeting spot. On summer evenings, locals and visitors picnic on the lawn. The Galway City Museum next door is well worth combining. Free to visit. 3-minute walk from the Latin Quarter.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours
Travel Tips
Summer evenings often bring impromptu busking sessions on the riverside lawn. Combine with the free Galway City Museum next door.
Hotels near Spanish Arch
Hotels and guesthouses in Galway, Spanish Parade, Galway
Other attractions in Galway
Cliffs of Moher
Atlantic-facing cliffs over 200 m high - Ireland's most stunning natural landscape.
Aran Islands
Atlantic limestone islands where Gaelic language and traditional culture still thrive.
Galway Latin Quarter
A charming district of cosy shops and pubs at the heart of Galway.
Galway Cathedral
Ireland's last great stone cathedral, completed in 1965 — a Renaissance dome with Byzantine mosaics.
Salthill Promenade
A 2km seafront promenade along Galway Bay — sunsets and views of the oyster beds.
Connemara National Park
Wild bog, mountains, and lakes — the rugged landscape of Ireland's west.
Eyre Square
Galway's central square — site of the JFK memorial and the city's tribal flags, a gathering spot.