Ireland

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Few countries harbour, as Ireland does, such a turbulent past, which dips its roots into the mists of time and continues to live in the present. This past has left an indelible mark on the memories of its people, in the folk displays dating back to Celtic religious rites and St. Patrick's miracles, and in the introverted but rich and sensitive charter of the people themselves. This restless race, who kept and strengthened their diversity despite endless periods of foreign rule, demonstrates a remarkable capability to bring the past up to date. This conflicting and elusive character, which the Tinkers--the last Irish nomads--embody, suddenly bursts out with all its theatricality during noisy and lively debates in pubs and among groups of farmers in the cattle markets. The island nature itself, reserved yet wild with its enchanting green expanses and its romantic brightness of sky, evokes the magic, fairy-tale notes of Irish legends and stories.