Nestling among the gentle hills of the Orchard County of Armagh is the ancient city of Armagh, the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. A casual glance suggests a typical Ulster town, but a closer look reveals a city which boasts two cathedrals and magnificent institutions such as the Royal School, St. Patrick's Fold, the classic courthouse and an observatory and planetarium of world class status.

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Long before St. Patrick chose Armagh as a base to spread Christianity, the area was already a centre of power and influence - for 700 years the kings of Ulster had their royal capital at nearby Navan Fort. Today's visitor can discover its archaeology and mythology at the Navan Centre.

Turn any corner in Armagh and you will see superb terraced houses, both grand and quaint. And at the heart of this Georgian city lies the famous Mall, an island of lush green in a sea of stone. The Palace Stables Heritage Centre The Palace Demesne, Armagh's lovingly restored Georgian building featuring a superb exhibition of lifelike models, audio commentary and spectacular murals recreating 18th century life. New Attractions: The new "Garden of the Senses" is no ordinary garden. Rather, it is a sensory experience that will appeal to both able-bodied and disabled visitors.

The Advebture Play Area, offers a striking contrast to the Garden of the senses with its climbing frames and assault course style obstacles. Both area's celebrate nature through their use of ecological friendly themes and materials.

Armagh Planetarium College Hill, Armagh city, houses the largest public telescope in Ireland, an interactive 'Star Theatre', solar telescopes and The Eartharium, which examines man's impact on our environment. St. Patrick's Trian, Armagh City is an innovative tourist complex with award winning exhibitions on the history of Armagh, the life and works of Saint Patrick and the enchanting land of Lilliput. Other services on site include Armagh Ancestry, Tourist Information Centre, Restaurant, Gift and Craft shops

The Navan Centre Killylea Road, Co. Armagh The wonders of Navan's impressive earthworks and sacred places are revealed in a building which has been designed as an integral part of the landscape.

Literary History

The ancient city of Armagh takes its name from Ard Mhacha or "Macha's Height" after the legendary queen goddess Macha. In English Street the Saint Patrick's Trian Visitor Centre, has an exhibition dedicated to the words of novelist and poet Jonathon Swift, who was a frequent visitor to the district.

Also in the city is the Robinson Library. This is a beautifully restored library where there are many literary treasures as well as a fine collection of coins and archaeological artefacts.

There are also close associations between poets such as W.R. Rodgers and Paul Muldoon.

For further details on activities, accommodation, events or places to visit in Armagh contact: Armagh Tourist Information Centre on 028 3752 1800 or e-mail tic-armagh@btconnect.com