This is a strange evening in Belfast. Colloquially known as The Eleventh Night, it is marked by the lighting of bonfires all over the Protestant areas of the city. These bonfires are lit in memory of beacons that announced the victory of the Protestant King William of Orange over the Catholic King James II at the Boyne Rover in 1690. Tomorrow, the 12th July, marks the anniversary of the battle and is celebrated by Protestants but reviled by the Catholic community. The whole thing is a devilish mix of religion, politics and culture. Whilst in rural areas there is still a community festival feel, in Belfast the whole thing can have a nasty edge about it, and is often marked by sectarian violence from both sides. Hopefully this evening and tomorrow should be quiet.

I thought I would post a few photos all from within walking distance of where I work. This initial batch is from late on in the afternoon.

There is is in all its glory. A little smaller this year due to attempts to be more environmentally friendly!. No car tyres. Usually its 3 stories high or more.