We headed out early this morning from Edinburgh south west back toward Glasgow on the way to the coast of the Irish Sea where we boarded a huge ferry for the 2 1/2 hour crossing. Belfast port is where we entered Northern Ireland and the origination of the Titanic and other Olympic class ocean going vessels. We went through a very detailed museum of shipbuilding and in particular, the Titanic. Then, it was on to Belfast. Our driver-guide said that at one time Belfast was one of the four dangerous "Bs" of the world as far as dangerous cities go; Beirut, Bagdad, Bosnia, and Belfast. Fortunately for the city and for us that is no longer the case. Actually, it was Bill Clinton's man and his push to help bring an end to the bloodshed and bombings that were going on during the city's "Time of Trouble." The Europa Hotel had over 20 separate bombings occur in the early 70s. The city was divided, and still is, but not firing bullets anymore between Nationalist Catholic and Republican loyalist factions. The latter still fly the British union jack flag and the nationalist the Irish flag of loyalty. We drove past many "old" graffiti covered walls as well as a separation wall between the hot spot areas in town. It sort of reminded me of the Berlin Wall. They have allowed both to remain as a tribute or reminder of those days. Finally, we arrived at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dublin.
 |
| Hotel with the most bombings in Europe |
 |
Graffiti covered walls
Notice the wires at the top |
 |
Walls to separate the factions
High to prevent bombs being thrown over |
 |
| Gates that were closed at dark to stop traffic |
No comments:
Post a Comment