County Mayo
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| County Mayo | |
|---|---|
| Name | County Mayo |
| Native name | Contae Mhaigh Eo |
| Coordinates | 53, 54, N, 9... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | Ireland |
| Subdivision type1 | Province |
| Subdivision name1 | Connacht |
| Seat type | County town |
| Seat | Castlebar |
| Leader title | Local authority |
| Leader name | Mayo County Council |
| Leader title1 | Dáil constituency |
| Leader name1 | Mayo |
| Leader title2 | EP constituency |
| Leader name2 | Midlands–North-West |
| Area total km2 | 5585 |
| Area rank | 3rd |
| Population total | 137,231 |
| Population as of | 2022 |
| Population rank | 17th |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Blank name sec1 | Vehicle index |
| Blank info sec1 | MO |
| Website | www.mayo.ie |
County Mayo is a county in Ireland, located in the province of Connacht. It is named after the village of Mayo, now known as Mayo Abbey. The county is renowned for its rugged Atlantic Ocean coastline, mountainous terrain, and rich archaeological heritage, including the Céide Fields, one of the most extensive Stone Age monuments in the world. The county town and administrative centre is Castlebar.
Geography
County Mayo is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes the expansive Lough Mask and Lough Corrib, along with major mountain ranges such as the Nephin Beg Range and Mweelrea, the highest peak in the province. Its dramatic western coastline features iconic landmarks like Croagh Patrick, a holy mountain, and the remote Achill Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge. The coastline is deeply indented by bays such as Clew Bay and Blacksod Bay, and the area is part of the Wild Atlantic Way tourism trail. The River Moy flows through the northern part of the county, entering the ocean at Killala Bay.
History
The region has a deep historical record, with ancient sites like the Céide Fields providing evidence of early farming communities. It was part of the Gaelic kingdom of Uí Fiachrach Muaidhe and later the Kingdom of Connacht. Significant medieval ecclesiastical sites include the Ballintubber Abbey and the ruins at Cong, associated with the Cross of Cong. The area was heavily impacted by the Great Famine, with the National Famine Monument at Murrisk commemorating this period. The 1798 rebellion saw a French invasion force land at Killala, leading to the Battle of Castlebar, also known as the "Castlebar Races".
Demographics
The population is primarily concentrated in towns such as Castlebar, Ballina, and Westport. Historically, the population declined dramatically due to famine and emigration in the 19th century, with many leaving for destinations like Boston and Chicago. The Gaeltacht regions, including areas around Tourmakeady and parts of Achill Island, are Irish-speaking districts. Recent decades have seen modest population growth, though it remains one of the more sparsely populated counties in Ireland.
Economy
Traditionally reliant on small-scale agriculture and fishing, the economy has diversified. Key sectors include advanced manufacturing, with companies like Becton Dickinson in Castlebar, and tourism centered on the Wild Atlantic Way and pilgrimage sites. Ireland West Airport Knock near Charlestown provides vital connectivity. The county is also a hub for renewable energy, particularly wind power, and has a growing food and beverage industry, with producers like the Connacht Whiskey Company and McCarthy's of Kanturk.
Culture and tourism
The county is a cultural heartland, home to annual events like the Ballina Salmon Festival and the Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival. It is deeply associated with traditional Irish music, particularly in towns like Westport. Major tourist attractions include the pilgrimage up Croagh Patrick, the historic Moore Hall, and the scenic Great Western Greenway on Achill Island. Museums such as the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life in Turlough and the Jackie Clarke Collection in Ballina preserve local heritage.
Notable people
Famous individuals from the county include humanitarian and missionary Mary Robinson, the first female President of Ireland; Nobel Prize-winning physicist Ernest Walton, born in Abbeyside; and 19th-century nationalist leader Michael Davitt, founder of the Land League. Other notable figures are pirate queen Grace O'Malley, actor Chris O'Dowd, and footballer Lee Keegan. The county has also produced influential writers like John MacHale, the Archbishop of Tuam, and playwright Martin McDonagh, whose work often references the region.
Category:County Mayo Category:Counties of Connacht