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The Gaelic Placenames of Belfast

by Aodán Mac Póilin and Róise Ní Bhaoill

This brochure explores the Gaelic origins of  Belfast placenames. Some are mythological - the old name for Belfast Lough was Loch Lao ' the lough of the calf', a reference to a bovine deity. Others recall the tribes that lived in the area - Taughmonagh is Tuath Monach 'the tribe of Monaigh', a Cruthin people originally from Leinster.  Many describe features which have been lost, e.g. Belfast is Béal Feirste, 'the approach to the sand-bank ford', a ford which once crossed the River Lagan.

The brochure is free of charge. Printed versions are available from the Visitor Centre at Belfast City Hall, the Belfast Welcome Centre and the Ultach Trust.

Download PDF brochure here

For a general brochure on placenames click here.