Belfast's Titanic History Unveiled As Titanic Belfast Opens

The official opening of what is arguably the world's most poignant tribute to the sinking of RMS Titanic has taken place in Belfast's Titanic Quarter. This momentous event for the city brought together dignitaries, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers from around the globe.

The opening ceremony was attended by a distinguished array of guests, including government officials, cultural figures, and descendants of those involved in the Titanic's construction and voyage. Among the notable attendees were Northern Ireland's First Minister Peter Robinson, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, and the Lord Mayor of Belfast. Their presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the collective effort that went into bringing Titanic Belfast to fruition. Also present was Cyril Quigley a 105 year old resident who saw Titanic launched in 1911 from Harland & Wolff.

Officially opened on the 31st March 2012 this state-of-the-art visitor attraction has opened in time to commemorate the loss of the iconic ship RMS Titanic, 100 years ago and compliments a memorial garden at Belfast City Hall in which the names of all those lost on the 14th and 15th April 1912 are subscribed. This monument lists over 1500 names of those who perished in the Atlantic and a copy of this list is available from Belfast City Council upon request.

After the cutting of the ribbon a few hundred visitors were allowed to step inside the towering structure, they were greeted by a breathtaking array of exhibits that vividly depicted the story of the Titanic, from its construction in the Harland & Wolff shipyards to its tragic sinking on its maiden voyage in 1912. The interactive galleries, spread over four storeys offer a multisensory journey through time, allowing guests to explore the ship's opulent interiors, learn about the lives of its passengers and crew, and delve into the technological innovations of the era. Controversially, however visitors not be permitted access to a replica of the ship's famous staircase.

In addition to its captivating exhibits, Titanic Belfast also boasts a range of amenities and attractions designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages. From guided tours, souvenir shops and dining outlets in the Grand Atrium, the attraction aims to cater to you preferences.

As you can see from the photos of Titanic Belfast's official opening below, part of the opening ceremony saw attendees treated to a spectacle of period dress, with guests donning attire inspired by the fashion of 1912. The elegant costumes served as a poignant reminder of the era in which the Titanic set sail and added an air of authenticity to the occasion, transporting participants back in time to a bygone era of luxury and sophistication.

Titanic Belfast now sits along the Harland & Wolff cranes as world class symbols of the City of Belfast and one of its most expensive with total costs close to £100 million but such monies as seen as a worthwhile investment in the city's future and aims, to attract visitors from around the world.

As the opening day drew to a close, the overwhelming sentiment among attendees was one of awe by this new Titanic visitor experience and of reverence for those lost 100 years ago and who the city now wish to remember while celebrating its maritime past.

Around the globe money is being made off the Titanic Brand but it must always be remembered that Titanic lies at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, hundreds died, thousands suffered and entire countries mourned.

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