Nora Barnacle, Galway-born and forever entwined with the story of James Joyce, was far more than a companion; she was his muse, confidante, and greatest inspiration. Her childhood home, now a private house museum – the smallest museum in Ireland – preserves treasured photographs, personal memorabilia, and excerpts from the passionate correspondence shared between the couple. Through Nora’s story and Galway’s literary heritage, we gain a deeper understanding of the enduring bond that inspired Joyce’s imagination and helped shape some of the most celebrated works of twentieth-century literature.
Join us in celebrating their love stories with a series of special events across Galway City. Dress in your most elegant Edwardian-inspired attire and step into the world of Joyce and Nora. Wander the streets they knew, discover the stories that shaped them, and immerse yourself in a truly Joycean experience inspired by Ulysses.
11:00 – 12:30 James Joyce and Nora Barnacle Walking Tour
Galway was Joyce’s second favourite Irish city, and appears either directly or in reference to, in all his works. Explore the relationship of Oliver St John Gogarty (Buck Mulligan) and Galway, Nora Barnacle and her Galway life, Joyce’s visits to Galway (he visited twice), and Galway events and places mentioned in Joycean literature – and why.
Start Location: Pádraic Ó Conaire statue, Eyre Square
End Location: Caprice restaurant, 1 Church Lane
1 pm –Ulysses-inspired Brunch
Location: Caprice Restaurant
Taste some of the popular food mentioned in Ulysses to tap into the world of Leopold Bloom. Edwardian background music and lovely atmosphere await you at Caprice. If you want to make this Bloomsday experience more authentic, show off your finest Edwardian style attire and bring the elegance of the era to life. You can also rent/buy your outfit at the best vintage shop in Galway, Planet Retro Vintage.
11 am – 4 pm Visit Nora Barnacle House Museum
Location: 8 Bowling Green, 2-minute walk from Caprice restaurant.