James Hardiman’s 1820 History of the Town and County of the Town of Galway, is a book treasured as a classic of Irish history and tradition, and the Galway he knew so well has continued to build upon its medieval foundations and cultivate its unique heritage. With an inquiring mind and exceptional diligence, Hardiman paved the way for others to follow — and here in Hardiman & Beyond a host of today’s writers explore two further centuries of Galway’s history; the vibrant cultural and artistic life of this compact and energetic city on the edge of Europe.

"This intricate cultural history of Galway demonstrates the power of visual and performing arts in vitalising and revitalising our lives. It shines a radiant light across the turbulent decades of the modern Irish story." — Professor Robert Pascoe, Victoria University, Melbourne

"This book is full of treasure about the west of Ireland. It is beautifully designed, researched, and illustrated, including a trove of archival photos; absorbing reading not merely for cultural historians anywhere, but especially for anyone living in Ireland. It will become a favourite gift for anyone with a connection to to Galway." — Professor William Lyons, Emeritus Professor of Moral Philosophy and Fellow of Trinity College, Member of the Royal Irish Academy & playwright