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Connemara (Irish Conamara) is a region in the west of Ireland (Co. Galway). It is reportedly named after the Conmaicne Mara, who territory was located in the extreme west of the region. Another story has it named after Conmac, who was the son of the Queen of Connacht. An alternative name for it was Iar Connacht, which meant "west of Connacht", indicating that it lay beyond Connacht proper.
Connemara is known for its rugged yet beautiful landscape with hills ("The Twelve Bens"), rivers and moors. It used to be a very poor part of Ireland and many of its inhabitants suffered terribly during the Famine. Until today, it has remained a rural area and one of the few Gaeltacht regions.
The main town of Connemara is Clifden. Connemara's coast is very convoluted and has a wealth of lovely beaches, little islands and harbours. The area around Clifden is rich with megalithic tombs. The famous green/white Connemara Marble was a trade treasure used by the inhabitants of the time and continues to be of great value today.
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