The Isle of Man
In the Irish Sea about 20 miles away from the UK you will find a beautiful island. This
is the Isle of Man. The people of the island are called Manx and they speak the Manx language.
The island occupies a mid-point in the Irish Sea and the British Isles – right
between England, Ireland,Scotland and Wales.
The scenery of the Isle is varied. There are ranges of hills with green valleys between
them, there are sandy beaches in the north which contrast with the rocky cliffs along the coasts.
The island's only mountain is slightly over 600 metres high. An old legend says that from its top
on clear days you can see six kingdoms: the island itself, Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales and
Heaven.
The Isle of Man has the oldest parliament in the world. It is called the Tynwald and it has
met regularly since 979. The Tynwald usually meets in the capital of the country. However, for
one day every summer the Manx parliament gathers in a small village to celebrate Tynwald Day.
It is the only day of the year when parliament is held in the open air. On this day government
officials read a summary of all the laws that have been passed during the year in both the English
and the Manx languages. There is entertainment before and after the ceremony and it is a real
community event. In addition to that, an open air market is organised and different concerts are
held in the evening. At the conclusion, the Manx national anthem is played and there is a
firework display.
Another thing that attracts tourists to the Isle of Man is its rich and unique culture. Any
visitor to the island will be particularly fascinated by the legends, folklore and the ancient
traditions that are still kept alive today. Most tourists are happy to participate in the folk
programmes.
In Manx mythology, the island’s name comes from the name of a Celtic sea god. He
ruled the kingdom and protected the land from invaders by covering the island with mist and
thick fog. The island is also reputedly home to fairies who are very special. The Manx fairies are
described as small and human-like. They wear red caps and green jackets and are naughty and
wicked.
There's even a bridge called Fairy Bridge. Those who cross it are advised to say ‘hello
fairies’ in order to get good fortune. If the person doesn’t greet the fairies, the fairies will become
angry with him and may play a nasty trick on him. Some people go further in trying to pay their
respects to the ‘little people’. They do not just simply say hello, they also leave messages and
gifts at the side of the road.
If you love reading about King Arthur and his knights, then a must-see place
is Peel Castle. It was constructed in the 11th century by the Vikings and has a fascinating history.
It is believed thatPeel Castle was the location of Avalon – the legendary island where King
Arthur’s sword was made and where King Arthur was taken after being wounded.
1)The island was named in honour of one of the Manx kings.
o 1)True
o 2)False
o 3)Not stated
2)According to Manx beliefs, ignoring the fairies can cause trouble.
o 1)True
o 2)False
o 3)Not stated
3)King Arthur was born on the Isle of Man.
o 1)True
o 2)False
o 3)Not stated
4)In the past, the Isle of Man was an independent state.
o 1)True
o 2)False
o 3)Not stated
5)Visitors to the island can take part in the Manx folk festivals.
o 1)True
o 2)False
o 3)Not stated