Ireland

The Republic of Ireland occupies most of the island of Ireland off the coast of England and Wales. Its capital Dublin is the birthplace of writers such as Oscar Wilde and the home of Guinness beer. The 9th-century Book of Kells and other illustrated manuscripts are on display at Trinity College Library, Dublin. Nicknamed the "Emerald Isle" for its lush greenery, the country is dotted with forts such as the medieval Cahir Fort.