The people of Ireland have an illustrious cultural history, full of stories of faeries and and the great Saint Patrick who freed Emerald Isle from snakes. The folklore and traditions which encompasses Irelands's religious as well as ancient pagan past are a beautiful way to know about its rich cultural heritage.

The shamrock, the plant with three leaves, is considered a symbol of Ireland. Saint Patrick equated the three leaves with the symbolism of the holy Christian trinity?the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. This symbol was said to have mystic powers of healing and protection. No wonder, it is often carved into graves.

The color green is commonly associated with Ireland, including its famous nickname of the Emerald Isle. Green is thought to be the color of life and spring, so the people use it to display their national pride. Additionally, the wet weather of Ireland allows it to possess lush green plants, thus the Emerald Isle.

Perhaps the most famous legend that stems from Ireland is that of the leprechaun. These tiny enchanted people are often associated with rainbows and pots of gold, as they guard the treasures from people who are so lucky to find the end of the rainbow. Usually, leprechauns are troublemakers and rogues, who mean no harm but only perform pranks to delight children and adults alike. Next time you see a rainbow, try to catch the leprechaun!

The Blarney stone in the famous Blarney Castle has a legend attached to it. It is said to have bestowed the gift of eloquence to Lord of Blarney when the reagent of England's'sQueen Elizabeth I tried to influence him to English rule. The poor Lord did not know what to say to the ruler. A wise woman told him to kiss the Blarney stone and he succeeded in making his plea before the Queen.

The ancient Irish commemorated a holiday on 31'st of October(Hallow's eve) called Samhain. They marked it with a big feast and ritualistic bonfires. Because of their deep rooted faith in spirits, they dressed in different costumes to mislead them while returning home.

Finn McCool is the friendly giant of Ireland who is said to protect them against attack. It is believed he fought against an evil giant from Scotland by throwing a large clod of earth at the big Scot. This is how Lough Neagh, the largest body of water, was formed.

The most famous personality belonging to Ireland and their benefactor saint is Saint Patrick. He was born in 5'th Century AD. Saint Patrick closely worked with Roman Catholic Church to bring pagans into the fold of Christianity. This put him against the droids. He was often forced to live the life of a fugitive. Saint Patrick is also known for eradicating snakes from Ireland by cursing them to run away into the sea and drown.