OK so some of the facts deal with Northern Ireland as well. As I find more, I will keep this page updated.

1. Ireland was part of the United Kingdom for centuries. However, after years of civil war, Ireland became a republic in 1922. At this time, Britain negotiated with Ireland to keep the six counties in the north-east of Ireland. These six counties now make up what is known as Northern Ireland or Ulster. The southern part of the island is the Republic of Ireland, or Eire.
2. The HMS Titanic was built in Belfast. Hollywood has succeeded in glamourising the maiden voyage of HMS Titanic that ended in such tragedy nearly 100 years ago. If not for a few brief comments in the film, many would not be aware of the fact that the famous ocean liner Titanic was built in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland.
3. Its not that big you know. Northern Ireland occupies just 17% of the total island of Ireland. The total area, which includes islands is 14,120 sq km.
4. It may be a small place, but we have our fair share of Famous people. Some famous people from Northern Ireland include George Best, the legendary  football (soccer) player, Kenneth Branagh, film director and actor, Liam Neeson an actor, CS Lewis an author, Ruby Murray a singer and Ian Wilson, a composer.
5. Northern Ireland is divided into 24 districts, 3 cities and 6 counties. The districts include Antrim, Ards, Armagh, Ballymoney, Banbridge, Carrickfergus, Castlereagh, Coleraine, Cookstown, Craigavon, Down, Dungannon, Fermanagh, Larne, Limavady, Lisburn, Magherafelt, Moyle, Newry and Mourne, Newtownabbey, North Down, Omagh and Strabane. The 2 cities are Belfast (the capital city of Northern Ireland), Londonderry and the recently promoted Lisburn. The counties are County Antrim, County Armagh, County Down, County Fernanagh, County Londonderry and County Tyrone.
6. Belfast is often referred to as the “Hibernian Rio” because of its location. It is nestled beside the River Lagan and Belfast Lough. The city is surrounded by gentle rolling hills and boasts a delightful setting.
7. Donegall Square is the focal point of the city. The area is home to city hall and the point from which all roads radiate.
8. Belfast, an industrialized port city, is home to one-half a million people. A third of all of Northern Ireland’s population lives within the city limits of Belfast.
9. Queen University enrolls some 12,000 students. It is named for Queen Victoria, who visited Belfast in 1849. The university hosts the city’s major annual arts event, the Belfast Festival at Queens.
10. Cave Hill Country Park sits perched atop a 1,200-foot basalt cliff, which is said to resemble the profile of Napoleon. It’s the perfect vantage point for getting a fantastic view of the area. In addition, the park offers walking trails and a variety of interesting archaeological and historical sights.
11. In 1886, the bell of St. Malachy’s Church on Alfred Street was removed. Why? The adjacent distillery in Dunville complained that the tolling of the bells interfered with the maturing of the whisky!
12. The architectural variety in Belfast reflects the many influences that have helped shape this volatile city. Victorian designs often include the large sculptures, while the Edwardian buildings feature a more streamlined construction. Though it may not seem very Irish, there are also many Art Deco-inspired buildings in the city.
13. While in Belfast, you must eat like a champ! Champ is nothing more than mashed potatoes. But, when they’re paired with a good pint and some local oysters, you can bet that you’re in for a treat that’s truly Irish and enjoyable.