Munster

Munster is one of the four provinces of Ireland, located in the southern part of the island. It comprises six counties: Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford. The largest urban centers are Cork City, Limerick and Waterford. The province is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Celtic Sea to the southeast; the River Shannon runs through its eastern counties, forming a major waterway.

Geography and landscapes in Munster range from the limestone hills of the Burren in Clare to the coastal scenery of the Ring of Kerry in Kerry, and from the Galtee and Comeragh mountain ranges to rugged Atlantic coastlines. The region combines fertile lowlands with upland areas, offering a variety of agricultural, historical, and cultural landscapes.

History and culture: The name Munster derives from the old Irish territory Mumu (Muman). The area was home to Gaelic kingdoms and later experienced Norman influence and broader English administration in Ireland. Munster has a rich cultural heritage in music and literature and a strong tradition of sport; Gaelic games are widely played, and Munster Rugby remains a prominent professional team in Ireland and Europe. The region also contains historic sites such as Blarney Castle and various medieval churches and cathedrals.

Economy and settlement: Munster’s economy blends agriculture, agri-food industries, manufacturing and services, with tourism playing a significant role. Visitors are drawn to coastal scenery such as Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry, as well as historic towns and countryside. The province is served by several higher education institutions, including universities in Cork, Limerick and Waterford.