Galway City Museum

This modern museum beside the Spanish Arch explores the history, archaeology and maritime traditions of Galway and its surrounding region. Opened in its present building in 2007, its galleries display artefacts from the medieval city, fishing craft including a traditional Galway hooker sailing boat, and material on the area's social and political history. Large windows frame views over the Corrib and the old town walls outside. Admission is free, and the museum serves as a starting point for understanding the layered history of the city.