Ireland

These four photos were taken on the island of Inis Meann off the western coast of Ireland, between the Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Because of its location, inhabitants of the island have been able to preserve many cultural and agricultural traditions. They have also been able to preserve use of the Gaelic language.

Photographer: Lauren Barret, Class of 2009

The cliffs in the above photo are located on the western side of the island. They are made of limestone and throughout the centuries they have been carved out by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

Photographer: Lauren Barret, Class of 2009

The stone walls in the above photo are remnants of the historical practice of field division, through which the land for farm animals was divided all over the island. However, because the farmers have lived on the island for so many generations, they know exactly where the land divisions are and do not worry about their neighbors' encroachment.

Photographer: Lauren Barret, Class of 2009

The above photo shows the pastoral beauty of Inis Mean, which is only one mile wide and two miles long. 

Photographer: Lauren Barret, Class of 2009

The above photo shows the gateway to the Atlantic Cliffs, which was very meaningful to the photographer, as it was the first time she had ever seen the Atlantic from the other side. Since the island has about 100 inhabitants but only three cars, chances are high that one will meet a neighbor when taking a stroll on a road such as this.