Strange Irish Facts

An island in the North Atlantic, Ireland is home to 5.9 million people. Known for legends, fairies and leprechauns, Ireland
has no shortage of strange facts concerning everything from historical figures to long-held traditions to modern-day events.

Wrong-Turning Windmills

Ireland is the only country in the world where windmills turn clockwise; in every other country, they turn counterclockwise.

St. Patrick Isn't Irish

Known near and far as the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick isn't Irish. His real name is Maewyn Succat and he was born in Roman Britain.

Something To Harp On

The harp is Ireland's official emblem. Ireland is the only country in the world to have a musical instrument as its national emblem.

Pigs As Renters

In the olden days of Ireland's agricultural past, it was not unusual to find pigs living in family farmhouses; often they were referred to as "the gentleman that pays the rent."

Sweaters As I.D.

Aran sweaters, known for their beauty and sturdy construction, are distinguished by "family weaves." Each distinctive weave helps families identify the bodies of drowned fisherman who are found on the shore.

Powered By Peat

Coal and iron are virtually nonexistent in Ireland. Much of the country's power comes from abundant supplies of peat or turf, which is harvested by a state power company.

References

• Ireland: Unusual facts

Resources

• Irish oddities