York has a secret feline population hiding in plain sight. Perched above streets, tucked into old buildings and watching from rooftops, the Cats of York have become one of the city's most unusual traditions. From their origins in the early twentieth century to the later sculptures that expanded the collection, these curious figures have quietly found their place among York's ancient architecture and centuries of history.
Naples Beneath the Streets: Tunnels, Water and the Shelters of War
Beneath the busy streets of Naples lies a hidden world shaped over more than two thousand years. What began with ancient quarrying and the need for groundwater became an intricate network of aqueducts, wells and cisterns. Centuries later, these same underground spaces took on a very different role as air-raid shelters during the Second World War, while purpose-built bunkers formed part of the city's wartime defences. Today, the tunnels reveal a remarkable story of water, engineering, survival and the people who sought refuge beneath Naples when the skies above became dangerous.
The Bogside Murals: Derry’s Streets of Memory
The Bogside Murals in Derry form one of the most powerful collections of public art in Ireland, closely tied to the events of Bloody Sunday and the wider Civil Rights era. Painted across the walls of residential streets, these works preserve moments of memory, loss, and identity within the very landscape where history unfolded. Today, they remain both a place of reflection and a striking visual record of Derry’s recent past.
The Art of Place: Northern Ireland’s Outdoor Gallery
Beyond the cities and well-known landmarks, Northern Ireland's walls tell stories of the communities around them. From coastal towns and market centres to quiet villages and busy streets, murals and public art celebrate local identity, preserve memories, and reveal the people, places, and traditions that continue to shape life across the region.
Belfast’s Peace Wall: A Canvas of Art, History, and Change
Originally built as a temporary barrier during the Troubles, Belfast's Peace Wall has evolved into one of the city's most distinctive outdoor galleries. While its history remains an important part of its identity, the wall continues to change through layers of murals, public art, and creative expression. From large-scale artworks to community-led projects, it has become a living canvas that reflects both Belfast's past and the creativity that continues to shape its streets today.
