The Belfast Peace Wall is a remarkable and sobering sight that reflects the history and reality of the sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland. It is a series of barriers that separate Catholic and Protestant neighbourhoods in Belfast, mainly in the west and north of the city. The wall was built in 1969 as a temporary measure to prevent violence between the two communities, but it has become a permanent feature of the urban landscape, stretching over 34 kilometres (21 miles) and reaching up to 8 metres (25 feet) high in some places.

The wall is not a single structure, but rather a collection of different walls, fences, gates and roads that divide the city along religious and political lines. Some of the walls have gates that are opened during the day and closed at night, while others are completely sealed. The wall is also covered with graffiti, murals, messages and artwork that express the views, hopes, fears and identities of the people who live on either side of it. Some of the murals are political, depicting historical figures, events or symbols of the Irish republican or British loyalist movements. Others are more personal, reflecting the experiences, aspirations or grievances of the residents. Some are also more hopeful, calling for peace, reconciliation or unity among the people of Belfast.

The wall is a popular tourist attraction, as it offers a unique insight into the culture and history of Belfast and Northern Ireland. There are several ways to visit the wall and learn more about its significance and context. One option is to take a walking tour with a local guide who can explain the background and meaning of the wall and its murals, as well as share stories and anecdotes from their own perspective. Another option is to take a black cab tour, which is a private taxi service that takes visitors around the wall and other sites of interest in Belfast. The drivers are usually from one of the communities affected by the wall and can provide a personal and candid account of life in Belfast during and after the Troubles. Both options allow visitors to interact with the locals and ask questions about their views and experiences.

The wall is also a controversial and contested site, as it raises questions about the future of Belfast and Northern Ireland. While some see it as a necessary security measure that prevents violence and maintains peace, others see it as a symbol of division, segregation and oppression that perpetuates fear and mistrust. There have been efforts to remove or reduce the wall in recent years, especially after the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 that ended the armed conflict and established a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland. However, progress has been slow and difficult, as many residents still feel unsafe or unwilling to live without the wall. According to a survey conducted in 2012, only 38% of residents living near the wall wanted it removed immediately or within the next five years, while 58% wanted it to remain as long as they felt it was necessary.

The Belfast Peace Wall is, therefore, a complex and fascinating site that reveals both the challenges and opportunities for peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. It is a place where history, politics, art, and culture collide and coexist, creating a rich and diverse tapestry of stories and meanings. It is also a place where visitors can witness firsthand the impact of conflict and division on people's lives, as well as their hopes and efforts for change and dialogue. It is definitely worth visiting for anyone who wants to understand more about Belfast and Northern Ireland.