Celtic Symbols–Irish Harp

Harp Candle Holder

Based on the ancient lyre, the Irish harp is one of the world’s oldest instruments–dating back to the 14th century.  The ancient Irish kings employed harpists to entertain them.  At one sad point in Irish history, conquering invaders made it illegal to possess an Irish harp–setting out to burn them all in a failed attempt to kill the “Irish spirit.”

The national emblem of Ireland, one of the oldest harps–dating back the the 14th through 18th centuries–is currently preserved in Trinity College, Dublin.  It appeared on the first unofficial flag of Ireland until the Tricolor was named the national flag in 1919.  It also currently serves as the flag of the President of Ireland and appears prominently on all of Ireland’s Euro coinage.

You can find the harp on much of the Irish jewelry, including rings, necklaces and lapel pins (www.wegotirish.com).  It is also part of the GUINNESS logo.