Thousands of well-wishers from around the world have gathered at William Shakespeare's birthplace to celebrate the playwright's legacy on the 400th anniversary of his death.
A theatrical parade through Stratford-upon-Avon was attended by more than 10,000 people paying homage to the Bard, who was born and died on 23 April.
In a ceremony made up in equal parts of contemplative moments, symbolism and celebration, Shakespeare's hometown began a weekend of events marking the keynote occasion.
President Michael D Higgins has said that the anniversary gives "us occasion to recall the immense contribution of Shakespeare to world literature and especially to the English language".
"Literature, in both our ancient Irish language and in the English language, has a central place in Irish culture and identity," the President said.
"Poetry and drama are especially important to us as a people".
He said it was important for him "as the first President of Ireland to pay a State Visit to the United Kingdom" to visit Stratford and attend the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2014.
During that visit, he said, he spoke of the influence of Ireland on Shakespeare and on the wider tradition of literature in the English language.
"That tradition continues today, and on this occasion of his quadricentennial, we celebrate how literature and in particular the genius of William Shakespeare help us understand our world and enrich our daily lives."
As the 400th anniversary of his death is marked, here are some of the phrases Shakespeare is thought to have coinedhttps://t.co/eXfO5gK9J4
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) April 23, 2016
US President Barack Obama marked the anniversary by attending a special performance at London's Globe Theatre.
Mr Obama, who is currently on a three-day visit to the UK, watched a ten-minute scene from Hamlet and spoke with the cast afterwards.
Later, Britain's Prince Charles will tour Shakespeare'ss former home and his graveside at Stratford's Holy Trinity Church.
He will then be joined by the Duchess of Cornwall for a special televised gala performance at the town's Royal Shakespeare Theatre, featuring David Tennant, Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Judi Dench.
