1.
What is the capital city of Ireland?
Correct Answer
B. Dublin
Explanation
Dublin is the correct answer because it is the capital city of Ireland. Limerick and Belfast are both cities in Ireland, but they are not the capital. Dublin is the largest city in Ireland and serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of the country. It is home to many important landmarks and institutions, including the Irish government buildings, Trinity College, and the Guinness Storehouse.
2.
Which is the longest Irish river?
Correct Answer
B. River Shannon
Explanation
The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland. It flows through the central part of the country, stretching approximately 360.5 kilometers (224 miles) in length. The river is known for its scenic beauty and is an important waterway for navigation and transportation. It is also a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. The River Shannon plays a significant role in Ireland's history, culture, and economy, making it a well-known and important feature of the country.
3.
In what order are the colors found on the Irish flag?
Correct Answer
C. Green, white and orange
Explanation
The correct order of colors on the Irish flag is green, white, and orange. This is because the flag consists of three vertical stripes of equal width. The green stripe represents the Irish Catholics, the orange stripe represents the Irish Protestants, and the white stripe in the middle symbolizes peace and unity between the two communities.
4.
Which is the highest mountain in Ireland?
Correct Answer
A. Corrán Tuathail
Explanation
Corrán Tuathail is the correct answer because it is the highest mountain in Ireland.
5.
On which side of the road do cars drive in Ireland (usually!)?
Correct Answer
A. Left
Explanation
In Ireland, cars drive on the left side of the road. This is the standard practice in most countries that were once part of the British Empire. Driving on the left side allows for better visibility of oncoming traffic and is generally safer. It also ensures that the driver is closer to the center of the road, reducing the risk of accidents when passing other vehicles.
6.
Which of these sports comes from Ireland?
Correct Answer
A. Hurling
Explanation
Hurling is a sport that originates from Ireland. It is a traditional Gaelic game played with a small ball and a wooden stick called a hurley. The objective of the game is to score points by hitting the ball into the opponent's net or over the crossbar using the hurley. Hurling is a popular sport in Ireland and has a long history and cultural significance in the country.
7.
Which of the following is a famous Irish music band?
Correct Answer
B. U2
Explanation
U2 is a famous Irish music band known for their distinctive sound and powerful performances. Formed in Dublin in 1976, U2 has achieved international success with their rock music and socially conscious lyrics. The band's members, Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr., have become iconic figures in the music industry. U2's hits like "With or Without You," "Sunday Bloody Sunday," and "Beautiful Day" have solidified their status as one of the most successful and influential bands in history.
8.
Who is the patron saint of Ireland?
Correct Answer
B. St. Patrick
Explanation
St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. He is widely recognized for bringing Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century and is celebrated on March 17th as St. Patrick's Day. He is also known for using the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity. St. Patrick's influence on Irish culture and history is significant, making him the most fitting choice as the patron saint of Ireland.
9.
Which of these is a symbol of Ireland?
Correct Answer
A. Shamrock
Explanation
The shamrock is a symbol of Ireland because it has been associated with Irish culture and heritage for centuries. It is believed that Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, used the three-leafed clover to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish people. The shamrock has since become a national symbol and is often used to represent Irish identity, especially on St. Patrick's Day.
10.
What is a leprechaun?
Correct Answer
A. A little fairy person
Explanation
A leprechaun is a mythical creature from Irish folklore that is typically depicted as a small, mischievous fairy person. They are often portrayed as wearing green clothes and a hat, and are known for their love of gold and their ability to grant wishes. Leprechauns are an important part of Irish mythology and are often associated with St. Patrick's Day and Irish culture. They are often depicted as tricksters and are said to be able to vanish or hide their pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.
11.
Which isn't a famous Irish beverage?
Correct Answer
C. Tomato juice
Explanation
Tomato juice is not a famous Irish beverage. Guinness is a well-known Irish stout beer, and Irish coffee is a popular alcoholic beverage made with coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with cream. However, tomato juice is not typically associated with Irish culture or known as a famous Irish beverage.
12.
When is St. Patrick's Day?
Correct Answer
B. 17th March
Explanation
St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on the 17th of March. It is a cultural and religious holiday that commemorates the death of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. This date was chosen to honor the day Saint Patrick is believed to have died in the 5th century. The holiday is celebrated with parades, wearing green, and other festivities to honor Irish culture and heritage.
13.
Which animal did St. Patrick famously banish from Ireland?
Correct Answer
A. Snakes
Explanation
St. Patrick famously banished snakes from Ireland. This is a popular myth associated with St. Patrick, who is believed to have driven all the snakes out of Ireland and into the sea. However, there is no evidence to suggest that there were ever snakes in Ireland in the first place. The story is often interpreted symbolically, representing St. Patrick's efforts to rid Ireland of pagan beliefs and practices.
14.
What is the first official language of Ireland?
Correct Answer
C. Irish
Explanation
The first official language of Ireland is Irish. This is because Irish is recognized as the national and first official language of Ireland, alongside English. Irish, also known as Gaeilge, has a long history and is an important part of Irish culture and identity. It is taught in schools and used in government institutions, media, and official documents. While English is more widely spoken, Irish holds a special status as the first official language of Ireland.
15.
Which is the correct way of counting from 1 - 3 in Irish Gaelic?
Correct Answer
B. A haon, a dó, a trí
Explanation
The correct way of counting from 1 - 3 in Irish Gaelic is "a haon, a dó, a trí." This is the standard counting sequence in the Irish language.
16.
Which is the correct way of saying St. Patrick's Day in Irish?
Correct Answer
A. Lá Fhéile Pádraig
Explanation
The correct way of saying St. Patrick's Day in Irish is "Lá Fhéile Pádraig". This is because "Lá" means "day", "Fhéile" means "festival", and "Pádraig" is the Irish equivalent of "Patrick". Therefore, "Lá Fhéile Pádraig" translates to "Day Festival Patrick" or "St. Patrick's Day" in English.
17.
An Ghaeltacht means:
Correct Answer
B. A region where Irish is the predominantly spoken language
Explanation
An Ghaeltacht refers to a region where Irish is the predominantly spoken language. This term is commonly used in Ireland to describe areas where the Irish language and culture are preserved and promoted. These regions are recognized for their linguistic and cultural heritage, and they play a vital role in the preservation of the Irish language.
18.
How do you say "Cheers!" in Irish?
Correct Answer
C. Sláinte!
Explanation
The correct answer is "Sláinte!" This is the Irish way of saying "Cheers!" when making a toast. It is commonly used in Ireland to wish good health and is often said before taking a drink.
19.
What is ogham?
Correct Answer
A. An old Celtic alphabet
Explanation
Ogham is an old Celtic alphabet that was used in Ireland and Britain during the early medieval period. It consists of a series of lines and notches carved into stone or wood to represent different letters. Ogham was primarily used for inscriptions and was associated with the Druids and early Irish culture. It is considered an important part of Celtic history and heritage.
20.
What is a céilí?
Correct Answer
C. A social gathering where there is music played and people dance
Explanation
A céilí is a social gathering where there is music played and people dance. It is a traditional Irish event where people come together to enjoy music, dancing, and socializing. Typically, céilís involve live traditional Irish music, such as jigs and reels, and people of all ages and skill levels participate in the dancing. It is a fun and lively event that promotes community and cultural connection through music and dance.