As Ireland's struggle for independence was in full swing, Irish athletes in the early 20th century were forced to compete under the flag of the United Kingdom. In 1906, furious to see the Union Jack raised in honor of his silver medal, Irishman Peter O'Connor climbed the Olympic flagpole to wave a green flag. On it, the crowd can read “Erin go Bragh”, or “Ireland forever”. This bubbling fervor of Ireland in the face of the question of Olympic recognition is revealed in a photo exhibition offering a look back at a century of prejudices and progress, failures and victories, while celebrating extraordinary sporting exploits. A deeply inspiring thirst for freedom.

Did you know? Ireland has unique sports, such as Gaelic football: this very free sport, the most popular in Ireland, resembles a mixture of rugby and football. Hurling, a lacrosse game, is more dangerous, and was even banned for almost two centuries because of its brutality.

IRISH CULTURAL CENTER
Until September 8, 2024
5 rue des Irlandais, 75005
M° Cardinal Lemoine (10)
Thu to Tue 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wed. 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Free entry