Belfast celebrates its 400th year as a city

15 October 2009 -

History buffs heading to Northern Ireland next month can attend a symposium on Belfast's 400th anniversary of being a city.

On November 4th a debate is being held at the Ulster Hall which will discuss the history of Belfast and other areas which have had city status for hundreds of years.

A number of experts on the topic will meet to debate the issues, with the forum being chaired by BBC journalist William Crawley.

Other panel members include Audrey Horning, from the University of Leicester, Professor John Belchem, pro-vice chancellor of the University of Liverpool, and Professor Tony Gallagher, head of the school of education at Queen's University.

Lord Mayor Naomi Long said the symposium will help attendees to understand the events which led to a charter being signed, adding that it is important to appreciate the significance of the anniversary.

"Audience participation is a key part of the day and listening to what the people of Belfast say is an important part of developing any commemoration, so join us for a day of lively debate – looking back in history and forward to Belfast's future," she added.

Those travelling to Belfast this month who have Northern Irish ancestry can also buff up on their family history with a heritage event on October 28th.