Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and has a population of approximately 480,000. Belfast was granted city status in 1888. Historically, Belfast has been a center for the Irish linen industry, tobacco production, rope-making and shipbuilding. The city's main shipbuilders, Harland and Wolff, built the Titanic! What a claim to fame! :) Today, Belfast remains a center for industry, as well as the arts, higher education and business. The city suffered greatly during the period of disruption, conflict, and destruction called "the Troubles," but lately has undergone a sustained period of calmness and economic and commercial growth. Belfast's city center has undergone considerable expansion and regeneration in recent years. Just a bit about Belfast!