Castlebar
Castlebar is the administrative capital of County Mayo. In the 13th Century the town began life as a settlement which was built around a castle. Castlebar is now an urban district with a population of over 6,000. Although it is a developing, industrial, and commercial centre the town still maintains a sense of tradition. Castlebar is home to the National Museum of Ireland Country Life and holds the national folklife collection. Archaeological treasures (such as the Ballintubber royal abbey, a round tower and medieval altar) have been found in the region around Castlebar. This thriving modern market town is perfect for visitors with plenty of entertainment, including traditional pubs, music sessions and quality dining.