Cork — A-1 Attractions
Photos (clockwise, left to right): St. Finbarr's Cathedral, Coal Quay Market, Cobh, The Queenstown Story at Cobh, Pat bending back to kiss the Blarney Stone 30 years ago, Barryscourt Castle and Coach House, Carrigtwohill, just outside of Cork City
Most visits to County Cork start with a few days in Cork City, the unofficial "capital" of Ireland's southern coast (population: 179,954) and Europe's official "Capital of Culture" for 2005.
Situated on the River Lee, Cork (which in Irish is "Corcaigh," meaning "marshy place") was founded in the 6th century as a monastic settlement by St. Finbarr. It was raided by the Vikings in the 8th and 9th centuries, the Anglo-Normans in the 12th century, and then dominated by the English for many centuries.
Cork was granted a charter in 1188 as a city but remained under English rule until this century. Today it is a thriving city with architecture that reflects its varied past — all enhanced by a great buzz of activity and friendliness. St. Patrick Street, known locally as "Patrick Street," is the city's main thoroughfare and chief shopping district.
Cork City's prime visitor attractions are:
St. Finbarr's Cathedral, Bishop St. (tel. 021-496-3387), named after the saint who founded Cork. Of fairly recent vintage (1867-1879) it stands on ground that is said to be the site of St. Finbarr's monastic settledment (c. 650), . The present Church of Ireland structure is a multi-spired Early French Gothic church, known for its elaborate scriptural carvings, mosaic pavements and great rose window. Open daily. Web site: www.cathedral.cork.anglican.org
Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, Emmet Pl. (tel. 021-427-3377), includes collections by some of Ireland's finest masters from Jack B. Yeats to Nathaniel Grogan, James Barry, William Orpen and Daniel Maclise, and sculptor John Hogan. It is housed in a mid-18th century building that was originally Cork's Custom House. Open Monday - Saturday. Web site: www.crawfordartgallery.com
St. Ann's Shandon Church, Church St. (tel 021-450-5906), is one of Cork's prime landmarks, with a giant pepper-pot steeple that stands out on the Cork skyline. It is also known for its eight melodious bells which ring out throughout the day. Visitors are encouraged to climb to the belfy and play a tune. Open Monday - Saturday. Web site: www.shandonbells.org
Cork City Gaol (Jail), Convent Ave., Sunday's Well (tel. 021-430-5022), gives insight into 19th century Cork. Many a Cork patriot served time within these walls and their story is recalled by furnished cells, life-like animated figures, sound effects, and an audiovisual show. Open daily. Web site: www.corkcitygaol.com
Cork is also home to two great markets - The English Market, off Patrick St., an indoor market dating back to 1788, open Monday - Saturday; and Coal Quay Market, Cornmarket St., an outdoor market (Saturday only). Web site: www.cork-guide.ie/cork_city/english-market.html
Just 6 miles northwest of Cork City is Blarney Castle, Blarney (tel. 021-438-5252) with its fabled stone that is said to bestow eloquence on all who kiss it. But you'll have to climb over 125 curved stone steps up the battlements to reach the stone, so this adventure is not for everyone! Walking around the picturesque town of Blarney is a delightful alternative. Open daily. Web site: www.blarneycastle.ie
Three other not-to-be-missed sights are east of the city:
"Cobh: The Queenstown Story," Cobh (tel. 021-481-3591), a heritage center housed in the old Cobh railway station., focuses on Cobh's role as a major transatlantic seaport in the 19th century. For anyone with an Irish name or roots, this center also offers genealogical information and passenger manifests from ships that sailed from Cobh to the US, Canada, and beyond. Open daily. Web site: www.cobhheritage.com
Barryscourt Castle, Carrigtwohill, between Cork City and Cobh (tel. 021-488-2218), is the Cork area's most newly restored castle - and the work in still in progress! Dating back to the 12th century, it was the seat of the Barry family for over 500 years. The present castle is a fine example of a 15th century tower house with 16th century additions. Access is by guided tour only. Open daily in June - September; and Friday - Wednesday during the rest of the year. Web site: www.heritageireland.ie
The Old Midleton Distillery, Midelton (tel. 021-461-3594), dating back to 1825, tells the story of Irish whiskey including a sample at the end of a tour. Open daily. Web site: www.whiskeytours.ie
For more attractions of County Cork:
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