Belfast(meaning: "mouthof thesandbanks")is the capital and largest city ofNorthern Ireland, the second-largest city in IrelandafterDublin, and is situated around theRiver Lagan, which runs through the city. Itis a port city known as the birthplace of the RMS Titanic, and for its political murals, documenting the ‘Troubles’ of the 20th century.
Today, Belfast remains a centre for industry, as well as the arts, higher education, business, and law, and is the economic engine of Northern Ireland. The city suffered greatly during the period of conflict called "the Troubles", but latterly has undergone a sustained period of calm, free from the intense political violence of former years, and substantial economic and commercial growth. Additionally,Belfast city centrehas undergone considerable expansion and regeneration in recent years, notably aroundVictoria Square.