The Story Behind Galway’s Blue YHS Tiles – Now Available for Purchase

If you’ve ever wandered through the historic streets of Galway, you may have noticed the distinctive blue tiles placed above doorways of homes and buildings. These tiles, inscribed with the letters YHS, have long been a source of curiosity, often mistaken for Garda-related emblems or commemorative markers from the 1932 International Eucharistic Congress. However, their history is much richer and deeply rooted in Galway’s religious heritage.

The blue YHS tiles were introduced in January 1914 by a Franciscan Friar, Fr. Francis Donnelly, as part of a movement to promote devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. The monogram “YHS” is a Greek abbreviation for the name of Jesus, and these tiles were placed over doorways to invoke divine protection and blessings upon the home’s occupants. Though primarily associated with Galway, these tiles can also be found in other Irish towns, including Ennis, Limerick, Cork, and beyond.

Interest in these tiles remains strong, with ongoing efforts to document and record their locations. Recent surveys suggest that over 118 buildings in Galway alone still bear these historical markers, with more being discovered periodically.

Exciting news for history enthusiasts! Galway Civic Trust now has a number of these traditional YHS blue tiles available for purchase. Whether you’re a collector, a history lover, or simply wish to continue this historic tradition in your own home, you can now acquire one of these beautiful and meaningful pieces. Inquiries can be made at the Galway Civic Trust office or at An Tobar Nua on Dominick Street.

If you have stories, photographs, or additional information about these tiles in your area, we would love to hear from you. Let’s continue to preserve and celebrate this unique aspect of Galway’s cultural and religious heritage!

Where to Purchase:

• Galway Civic Trust Office, Hall of the Red Earl, Custom House, Druid Lane Galway, Ireland H91 XV2C – Phone +353 91 564946
  
• An Tobar Nua. 25/27 Lower Dominick St. Galway, Ireland – Phone +353 91 562175
  

Secure a piece of Galway’s history today and continue the legacy of these meaningful and historic tiles!