Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, similar to Dublin, has a great mix of old and new architecture. These pictures were taken in 2004 but hopefully things haven't changed to much. Much smaller than Dublin, with a history that doesn't go back as far but at least in recent times a history that is more anguished.

I am sure a great deal of reconstruction has been completed since the Northern Ireland Conflict, which was locally known as "The Troubles". During that time, pictures of Belfast such as this one were common on the evening news. Here's a link to a small article and the source of this photo from the BBC.
One of Belfast most iconic buildings is City Hall. City Hall only dates back to 1906, but looking at the stonework and the artistry in the building I thought it to be much older.
The Crown is one of the oldest bars in Belfast being built in 1826. The Independent notes the Crown as being Belfast best known bar. Through the history of The Troubles, it's also noted as being near the center of some of the worst violence and the most bombed bar in Belfast.
The Europa hotel according to Wikipedia has hosted prime ministers, presidents and celebrities. Being almost across the street from the Crown it also saw it's own share of violence earning it the title of "the most bombed hotel in Europe". The most recent of the bombing occurred as recently as 1993. Subsequently the hotel was sold and closed for remodeling, reopening in February, 1994.

Don't let Belfast's history deter you from a trip here. You'll find friendly people, great food and plenty of things to do to keep you busy. We did stay at the Europa during our visit and would either stop at the Crown or on the ground floor of the Europa for a nightcap. Of course, being in an unfamiliar city, we were careful not to get "bombed".