"Eyre Square ('An Fhaiche Mhór' in Irish) in the heart of Galway City, is ""officially"" known as the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park.

The square has a rich history dating back to medieval times when markets took place on the green in front of the town gates.

In 1710, Mayor Edward Eyre officially presented the plot of land to the city. It remains a popular gathering place for visitors and natives alike and the grass areas are often packed on sunny days. There is also a small playground here and seasonal events take place throughout the year. A bust of the US President Kennedy, who was made a Freeman of the city, marks the spot where he made a speech to approximately 100,000 Galway people in 1963. This turned out to be his
his last trip before his assassination.

Over the years, the square has undergone a number of name changes and facelifts to become the present square and todays square features a number of ornate fixtures, such as the historic Browne family mansion doorway (1627) and the
Quincentennial fountain (1984) which is a representation of the Galway Hooker, a traditional fishing boat unique to Galway.

Shopping in Eyre Square

The largest shopping mall in the city centre is the Eyre Square Centre which has over 70 shops is the most popular and vibrant shopping environment in the city centre and includes a mix of local Irish retailers as well as the top high street. As well as our leading mix of fashion and leisure retailers, Eyre Square Shopping Centre has a selection of cafe style eateries offering shoppers a range of choices from tasty nibbles to coffee and snacks.