President Joe Biden spent four days in Ireland, seeking to connect with his Irish roots. He found connections with local traditions and people, which he valued over American traditions. Biden visited several important sites, such as the Parliament, the Knock Shrine, and the Mayo Roscommon Hospice. At the Knock Shrine, Biden looked at the original stonework from the apparition gable, which is said to be the site of a Marian apparition. Biden conveyed his condolences and appreciation to the Mayo Roscommon Hospice for the care they provided to cancer patients in the hospice. Biden also wondered about the reason for his ancestors' emigration (the Great Famine), expressing nostalgia and a desire to reconnect with his Irish identity. In addition, Biden expressed admiration for Ireland's progressiveness and commitment to democracy, which he sees as a model against the tide of populism. Though Biden's trip was nostalgic and reminded him of his Irish heritage, he ultimately recognized that the Ireland of today has a unique identity that is separate from the Irish American identity that many Americans associate with the country.