Death Practices in Ireland

Nicknamed the Emerald Isle, Ireland is an island nation that sits just off the westernmost coast of Europe. About 80% of the region comprises the Republic of Ireland (Southern Ireland), an independent nation made up mostly of people of the Catholic faith. A small area to the north, known as Northern Ireland, is part of the U.K. The official language of the country is Irish (Gaeilge), but English is spoken by most of the population except for small pockets along the western coast.

Once a poor country ravaged by famine and civil unrest, in recent years Ireland has become one of Europe’s most vibrant economies, fueled by thriving high-tech, financial services and agribusiness industries. Still, many of the Irish hold fast to their Celtic roots, and have a great reverence for nature and rural life. These traditional beliefs are often reflected in how the Irish celebrate and mourn their dead. 

Read more about some Irish customs and beliefs around death, mourning and remembrance below.

• Although Decidedly Irish, the Tradition of a Wake Actually Began with the Ancient Jews