Westport, County Mayo

Westport (Cathair na Mart in Irish) is a town in County Mayo in the Republic of Ireland. It is situated on the west coast of Ireland, at the south-east corner of Clew Bay, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean. The town's name in Irish, Cathair na Mart, is ancient and means "the town of the market" Westport has a gracious centre in the Georgian architectural style, as one of the few planned towns in the country (by James Wyatt in the 18th century. the planning of the town was commissioned by Lord Sligo of the stately home, Westport House as a place for his workers and subjects to live. Among the most picturesque parts of the town is the tree-lined, flower decorated, promenade (The Mall) and little stone bridges along the river Carrow Beg.

Related Topics:
Irish - Town - County Mayo - Republic of Ireland - Ireland - Clew Bay - Atlantic Ocean - Cathair - Georgian architectural style - Planned towns - James Wyatt - 18th century

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The famous pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick, known locally as "the Reek" lies some 10km west of the town near Murrisk. The mountain presents a striking backdrop to the town. The church on the summit can just be made out with the naked eye from Westport.

Related Topics:
Croagh Patrick - Murrisk

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