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Quizzes > Society & Culture

Ireland trivia: Test your Emerald Isle knowledge

Quick, free Ireland quiz to test your knowledge. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Cecilia FuenzalidaUpdated Aug 24, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Layered paper cut shamrock map and quiz question icons on golden yellow background

This Ireland trivia quiz helps you check what you know about Irish history, places, and culture, from legends to county names. Expect quick questions, instant scoring, and handy facts along the way. For more practice, try Irish quiz questions or explore an Ireland facts quiz.

What is the capital of Ireland?
Limerick
Dublin
Galway
Cork
Dublin has been Ireland's capital and largest city since the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. It is the political, cultural, and economic center of the country. The city is located on the River Liffey and is home to many historic landmarks.
What is the national symbol of Ireland?
Claddagh Ring
Harp
Shamrock
Celtic Cross
The shamrock, a three-leaved clover, is the national symbol of Ireland and is said to have been used by St. Patrick to explain the Holy Trinity. It has become a symbol of Irish identity and pride around the world. The shamrock appears on many emblems and flags associated with Ireland.
On what date is St. Patrick's Day celebrated?
March 17
February 1
January 1
December 6
St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17th each year to commemorate St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is believed to have died on that date in 461 AD. The holiday celebrates Irish culture with parades, music, dancing, and wearing green. It has become a global celebration of Irish heritage.
What is the nickname of Ireland, referencing its lush greenery?
Emerald Isle
Land of Kings
Green Island
Land of Saints
Ireland is often called the 'Emerald Isle' due to its vibrant green landscape, which results from the country's plentiful rainfall and mild climate. The term was popularized by the poet William Drennan in the late 18th century. It reflects the country's lush pastures and rolling hills.
Which traditional stringed instrument is a national symbol of Ireland?
Guitar
Harp
Bagpipes
Lyre
The harp is the national emblem of Ireland and appears on official seals, coins, and government documents. It has been an important musical instrument in Irish culture since medieval times. Today, the harp is a symbol of Ireland's artistic heritage.
Which currency is used in the Republic of Ireland?
Pound sterling
US Dollar
Euro
Irish pound
Since January 1, 1999, the euro (€) has been the official currency of Ireland, although euro banknotes and coins entered circulation on January 1, 2002. Prior to the euro, Ireland used the Irish pound (punt). Today the euro is shared with many other European Union countries.
Besides English, what is an official language of Ireland?
Welsh
Cornish
Irish (Gaeilge)
Scots Gaelic
Irish, also known as Gaeilge, is the first official language of the Republic of Ireland. It is a Goidelic language of the Celtic family, historically spoken throughout the island. English is the second official language.
How many provinces make up the island of Ireland?
Four
Six
Two
Three
The island of Ireland is traditionally divided into four provinces: Leinster, Munster, Connacht, and Ulster. Each province contains several counties. This provincial system dates back to early medieval times.
What is the highest mountain in Ireland?
Croagh Patrick
Slieve Donard
Carrauntoohil
Galtymore
Carrauntoohil, at 1,038 meters (3,406 ft), is the highest peak in Ireland and part of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks range in County Kerry. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
What prehistoric monument in County Meath is older than Stonehenge?
Avebury
Stone Circles
Poulnabrone Dolmen
Newgrange
Newgrange is a Neolithic passage tomb built around 3200 BC, making it older than both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. It is renowned for its winter solstice alignment when sunlight illuminates the inner chamber. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Which river is the longest in Ireland?
River Shannon
River Lee
River Liffey
River Boyne
The River Shannon is 360.5 km (224.2 miles) long, making it the longest river in Ireland. It flows south from County Cavan through the River Shannon Basin to the Atlantic Ocean. The river plays a vital role in transport, hydroelectric power, and recreation.
In what year did Ireland first win the Eurovision Song Contest?
1976
1980
1965
1970
Ireland's first Eurovision win came in 1970 with the song 'All Kinds of Everything' performed by Dana. Since then, Ireland holds the record for the most victories in the contest. The win cemented Ireland's reputation in European pop music.
Who is the author of the novel 'Ulysses'?
Samuel Beckett
William Butler Yeats
James Joyce
Bram Stoker
James Joyce published 'Ulysses' in 1922, and it is considered one of the most important works of modernist literature. It is known for its stream-of-consciousness style and deep exploration of characters in Dublin. The novel parallels Homer's Odyssey set in a single day.
Which ancient Celtic festival, marking the end of the harvest season, is celebrated on October 31st?
Lughnasadh
Imbolc
Beltane
Samhain
Samhain was a major festival in the ancient Celtic calendar, marking the end of the harvest and the onset of winter. Celebrations included bonfires, feasting, and rituals to ward off spirits. Modern Halloween traditions evolved from Samhain customs.
What famous Irish stout is brewed at St. James's Gate in Dublin?
Beamish
Smithwick's
Murphy's
Guinness
Guinness stout has been brewed at St. James's Gate Brewery in Dublin since 1759. It is known worldwide for its dark color, creamy head, and rich flavor. The brewery remains one of the largest and most famous beer landmarks.
Where is the Book of Kells displayed?
Royal Irish Academy
British Library
Trinity College Library, Dublin
Irish National Museum
The Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels, is on display at the library of Trinity College in Dublin. It dates back to around 800 AD and is a masterpiece of medieval art. The manuscript attracts over a million visitors each year.
Which Irish county is nicknamed 'The Rebel County'?
Galway
Kerry
Cork
Mayo
County Cork is known as 'The Rebel County' due to its history of resistance and rebellion, including during the Irish War of Independence. The nickname reflects the county's strong identity and traditions. Cork is the largest county by area in Ireland.
Northern Ireland comprises how many of the traditional counties of the province of Ulster?
Six
Nine
Seven
Four
The province of Ulster consists of nine historic counties, six of which form Northern Ireland. The remaining three - Cavan, Monaghan, and Donegal - are part of the Republic of Ireland. This division dates back to the Government of Ireland Act 1920.
What is the Irish language name for Ireland?
Alba
Éire
Cymru
Eireann
In Irish (Gaeilge), the country is called 'Éire', which is derived from the Old Irish name 'Ériu'. Éire appears on official government documents and postage stamps. The name has ancient mythological origins.
What is the name of the famous Irish dance show that debuted during the 1994 Eurovision interval?
Lord of the Dance
Celtic Woman
Riverdance
Dance of the Fairies
Riverdance premiered as a seven-minute interval performance during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest held in Dublin. Its fusion of traditional Irish music and modern choreography sparked a global phenomenon. It later toured as a full-scale production.
In what year did Ireland formally declare itself a republic, leaving the British Commonwealth?
1922
1937
1952
1949
The Republic of Ireland Act 1948 took effect on April 18, 1949, declaring Ireland a republic and ending its membership in the British Commonwealth. This marked full sovereignty distinct from the Irish Free State established in 1922. The President of Ireland became the head of state.
On the Irish flag, what does the color orange represent?
The land's fertility
Industry and trade
The Protestant community (supporters of William of Orange)
The Catholic community
The orange stripe on the Irish tricolor symbolizes the Protestant community in Ireland, particularly those who followed William of Orange. The green represents the Gaelic tradition and Catholic community, and the white stands for peace between them. The flag was first used by the Young Ireland movement in 1848.
In Irish mythology, Tír na nÓg is best described as what?
The battlefield of gods
The land of eternal youth
The sea castle
The underworld
Tír na nÓg, meaning 'Land of the Young', is a mythical realm in Irish folklore where aging and death do not exist. Heroes like Oisín traveled there and experienced its timeless beauty. The concept reflects Celtic beliefs in otherworldly realms.
How many counties are there in the Republic of Ireland?
27
32
24
26
The Republic of Ireland is divided into 26 counties, while the island as a whole has 32. The six counties of Northern Ireland bring the total to 32. Irish counties are traditional administrative divisions.
What is the official name of the national parliament of Ireland?
Dáil Éireann
Oireachtas
Stormont
Seanad Éireann
The Oireachtas is the bicameral national legislature of Ireland, consisting of the President, Dáil Éireann (lower house), and Seanad Éireann (upper house). It enacts laws, approves budgets, and oversees the government. Stormont refers to the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand Key Moments in Irish History -

    Learn to identify and summarize significant events that have shaped Ireland's past, from ancient Celtic roots to modern milestones.

  2. Identify Iconic Irish Cultural Traditions -

    Recognize and describe traditional customs, symbols, and celebrations that define Ireland's unique cultural heritage.

  3. Recall Fun Irish Trivia Facts -

    Memorize entertaining and quirky Ireland trivia tidbits, enhancing your knowledge of the Emerald Isle's lesser-known stories.

  4. Analyze Connections Between History and Culture -

    Explore how historical events influenced Irish arts, music, and folklore, deepening your appreciation for cultural evolution.

  5. Evaluate Your Irish Quiz Performance -

    Measure your mastery of Irish trivia questions and answers, and pinpoint areas for further exploration.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Prehistoric Monuments -

    Newgrange in County Meath, built around 3200 BCE, predates both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids (source: UNESCO World Heritage). This fun Ireland trivia fact highlights Ireland's ancient engineering - try picturing its winter solstice illumination to remember its importance.

  2. Gaelic Language Basics -

    The Irish word for Ireland is "Éire," pronounced AY-ra (source: University College Dublin). Use the mnemonic "Éire ends in E like Emerald" to nail this key term when tackling Irish trivia questions.

  3. Easter Rising & Independence -

    In 1916 the Easter Rising at Dublin's General Post Office sparked Ireland's path to independence (source: Trinity College Dublin). Recall "1916 GPO" as a mini formula - year + location - to ace fun Irish trivia on political history.

  4. Literary Legacy -

    Ireland boasts four Nobel Prize winners in Literature, including W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett (source: Nobel Foundation). When you see "Irish quiz" questions about authors, remember "YBSB" (Yeats, Beckett, Shaw, Boland) as a handy acronym.

  5. Counties and Provinces -

    Ireland is divided into 32 counties across four provinces: Leinster, Munster, Connacht, and Ulster (source: Central Statistics Office Ireland). For quick recall in Irish trivia questions and answers, use the chant "Let My Cousin Understand" (L-M-C-U).

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