• Centre of Irish Studies

 

The Center of Irish Studies in Cáceres is a research-based center established at the University of Extremadura whose members are scholars specializing in Irish linguistic, literary, and cultural subjects such as Irish English (socio)linguistics and pragmatics, perceptual dialectology, fiction and the portrayal of Irish English voice and identity, gender studies and gender representation in fiction, Irish English historical linguistics, and emigrant letters, among other areas.

In addition to interdisciplinary research, the Center of Irish Studies in Cáceres aims at bringing Irish culture closer to the city of Cáceres. Its inception lies not only in the members’ research interests but also in the links that exist between the city and Ireland. For example, Cáceres has a strong tradition of Irish music, having hosted the international Cáceres Irish Fleadh since 2004 with the support of the Irish Embassy in Madrid.

More historical ties between Ireland and Cáceres date back to the times of the Spanish Civil War, when the Irish Brigade of Catholic volunteers spent time training in Cáceres. As a testimony to their presence in the city, a bronze plaque was installed on the façade of the Franciscan Church of Santo Domingo, where the volunteers attended mass daily. The plaque, which is written in Irish, English, and Spanish, reads:

“To the glory of God and the honour of Ireland, in remembrance of the 15th Bandera, Irish brigade, of the Tercio, which worshipped in this church while serving in the cause of the Faith, and of Ireland's ancient ally and protector”

The Center of Irish Studies in Cáceres organizes conferences, workshops and other academic and non-academic activities in order to spread Irish culture. The center is open to collaborations with other researchers, artists, and associations interested in Irish studies in Europe, (Latin) America, and beyond.

 

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