Belfast, ANT at a Glance
Belfast saw the worst of the Troubles of the last century, but is currently
experiencing a regeneration as a cosmopolitan destination for both business
and pleasure. Home to the world's largest dry dock, the giant cranes that built
the Titanic are still visible from several parts of the city. The Ulster
Museum preserves remnants from Belfast's maritime past, and the surrounding
Botanic
Gardens attract picnickers and loungers.
A stroll through the city will take visitors through various areas of either
Loyalist or Republican orientation, and homes, pubs and public buildings are
painted with murals depicting the sentiments of either side. Built during the
prosperous Victorian era, the city's Opera
House has been restored to its original opulence, decorated with expert
tiling, woodworking and stained glass also seen at the Crown
Liquor Saloon, the only pub owned by the National Trust. Across from the
saloon is the Europa
Hotel - the most bombed hotel in Europe. Always open to discussion, interested
and political citizens gather for conversation at Belfast's Albert Memorial
Clock, erected between 1865 and 1870.
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