This is the river Liffey in Dublin, Ireland. It has been used for many centuries for trade, from the Viking beginnings of the city up to recent times. Nowadays modern ferry ships are docked at the mouth of the river, just east of the town center.

The river was previously named An Ruirthech, meaning "fast (or strong) runner". The word Liphe (or Life) referred originally to the name of the plain through which the river ran, but eventually came to refer to the river itself.

The river also divides the city Dublin is a northern and southern part; something which seems trivial to outsiders, but that’s compensated by locals. The Northside is seen as working-class, while the Southside is seen as middle and upper middle class. There are of course exceptions both ways, however regarding urban design the difference in class is certainly noticeable. The story goes that traditionally the divide was instigated by the working class. It began at Dublin docks in the early 1900s where, depending which side of the Liffey a boat docked, the dockers on that side got a day's work while those on the other side went home.

Up to the 1990s the cargo ships to export Guinness from the St. James's Gate Brewery - the home of Guinness - were a well-known sight on the Liffey. Alas, nowadays the only regular traffic on the river within the city is the Liffey Voyage water tour bus service. It runs guided tours along the River Liffey through Dublin City centre.

Bank of Ulster

The Irish Famine Ship Jeanie Johnston, Dublin

Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin