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BelfastThe fortunes of Belfast have risen and fallen over time, from its beginnings as a Bronze Age settlement and the building of the Titanic, to extensive World War II bombings and civil conflict. Today the capital of Northern Ireland is a thriving city that has regained some of its old charm and industry, and has begun to lure the curious traveller.
Belfast is situated near the mouth of the River Lagan and blossomed in the 17th century with an influx of English and Scottish settlers. The port city grew in prominence during the Industrial Revolution, with booming linen, rope-making
and shipbuilding industries. The ill-fated Titanic was built here in the Harland and Wolff shipyards and today Belfast still boasts the world's biggest dry dock, as well as a restored Waterfront Complex that houses chic restaurants, shops and ubiquitous Irish pubs.
Much of the city's architectural heritage was destroyed during repeated bombings in World War II, as well as during the Troubles; civil conflict between Roman Catholic nationalists and Protestant unionists that raged from 1969 until the late 1990s. Several exquisite Victorian and Edwardian buildings remain, however, and have been filled with trendy bars, boutiques, galleries, museums and restaurants in an attempt to regenerate the city's image. Evidence of the Troubles can still be seen in the many murals that line Falls Road and Shankill Road, and the Europa Hotel has become famous as one of the most bombed buildings in Europe, having being targeted no less than 27 times.
Belfast is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but its fascinating history, ongoing struggles, many attractions and above all, the warmth and acerbic wit of its inhabitants make it an essential stop on any trip to Northern Ireland. It also serves as an excellent base from which to explore the many wonders of the area.
Getting Around: Although a relatively car-dependent city, most of the city center of Belfast is reserved for pedestrians and is fairly compact; visitors can tour it on foot in about one hour. Belfast Metro is the local bus service, and its Smartlink cards and Metro Day Tickets offer visitors good value, depending on the length of stay. The Metro includes a nightlink service, although connections between different suburbs can be poor. Taxis have color-coded plates to enable visitors to recognize legitimate services, while London-style Black Taxis offer a less expensive alternative. Open-top bus tours, boat tours, and bicycle hire are also options.
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