An age-old Medieval bulwark privy to some of Ireland's greatest treasures, the profoundly impressive Blarney Castle stands amid rolling green expanses. Though a host of structures have stood on this spot since 1200, the extant Blarney Castle and its surrounding grounds were constructed in 1446 by Cormac McCarthy, King of Munster. King McCarthy is said to have helped Robert the Bruce, the King of Scots, by supplying him with military aid, and in return, Robert the Bruce gave the King McCarthy half of the Stone of Scone, which many people know as the legendary Blarney Stone. Part of the rectangular fortress' time-weathered facade, the Blarney Stone is the subject of a generational legend. It is believed that kissing the Blarney Stone will give one the 'gift of gab' - an ability to flatter others eloquently. Today, visitors to the castle travel from far to wander around its stunning grounds, explore the nooks and crannies of the castle, and, of course, kiss the Blarney Stone.
Situated in a quiet part of town, St Fin Barre's Cathedral is dedicated to the founder and patron saint of the city. Designed by Willliam Burges, the building was completed in 1878. It's an exuberant triple-spired edifice built in Gothic Revival style and decorated with stone tracery. Inside, the painted and gilded ceiling depicts Christ surrounded by angels. The stained glass windows below, tell the story of Christ's life. Hours change seasonally, so make sure to call ahead.
This famous religious landmark stands on the hilly slopes of the city, north of the River Lee. Built in 1722, the church has a facade made of limestone on two sides and of red sandstone on the other two. The steeple is topped by a weather vane in the shape of a salmon. The clock face is known locally as the "four-faced liar" because, until 1986 when it was repaired, each face showed a slightly different time. Visitors can climb the tower and for a small fee, ring the famous Bells of Shandon. Services take place at 10am on Sundays.
The elegant campus of University College Cork lies a little to the west of the city centre. The College was founded as Queen's College in 1845 and today is a constituent college of the National University of Ireland. The main buildings were ranged about three sides of a quadrangle, with the lecture rooms in the West Wing, the towered entrance, examination hall and library in the North Wing, and the residents of the President and Vice-President in the East Wing. Some vestiges of this scheme remain today. The president's garden behind the East Wing was originally walled off but is now open to students. The College is also home to the Boole Library, the famous Lewis Glucksman Gallery and the Granary Theatre.
The Signal Tower is one among the series of towers built in response to the looming threat of a French invasion. Then, the historic tower served as a strategic vantage point. Today, the tower serves as a prominent attraction of the town, offering stunning panoramic views of the picturesque vistas. Standing at the crown of the tower, one can enjoy views of the lucid seafront coupled with sightings of avian wonders such as puffins, guillemots and peregrines among others. Adding to the allure of this spot is the Lusitania Museum, which retells the chilling tale of RMS Lusitania, an Irish vessel torpedoed by a German U-boat, which caused immense loss of life.
Charles Fort is a 17th-century relic of Kinsale. Built at the commission of King Charles II, the fortress served defense purposes as a military fort. Designed by William Robinson, the star-shaped citadel has witnessed several momentous events of the country’s history, which include the Williamite War of 1690 and the Irish Civil War of 1922-23. Take a guided tour of the fortress to learn about the rich history of the country through the lens of the magnificent Charles Fort.
The Signal Tower is one among the series of towers built in response to the looming threat of a French invasion. Then, the historic tower served as a strategic vantage point. Today, the tower serves as a prominent attraction of the town, offering stunning panoramic views of the picturesque vistas. Standing at the crown of the tower, one can enjoy views of the lucid seafront coupled with sightings of avian wonders such as puffins, guillemots and peregrines among others. Adding to the allure of this spot is the Lusitania Museum, which retells the chilling tale of RMS Lusitania, an Irish vessel torpedoed by a German U-boat, which caused immense loss of life.
Spike Island rests in the Irish Cork Harbour. The island covers an area of 103 acres (41.6 hectares). Visitors seek the island for a tour around the historic Fort Mitchel. The fort dates back to the 18th century and has more recently been used as a prison. Another piece of history belongs to that of Archdall's Moanasticon Hibernicum. The island provides for scenic walks and picturesque picnics. The ferry trip from Cork and the food and shopping centers make for a lovely family holiday option.
An age-old Medieval bulwark privy to some of Ireland's greatest treasures, the profoundly impressive Blarney Castle stands amid rolling green expanses. Though a host of structures have stood on this spot since 1200, the extant Blarney Castle and its surrounding grounds were constructed in 1446 by Cormac McCarthy, King of Munster. King McCarthy is said to have helped Robert the Bruce, the King of Scots, by supplying him with military aid, and in return, Robert the Bruce gave the King McCarthy half of the Stone of Scone, which many people know as the legendary Blarney Stone. Part of the rectangular fortress' time-weathered facade, the Blarney Stone is the subject of a generational legend. It is believed that kissing the Blarney Stone will give one the 'gift of gab' - an ability to flatter others eloquently. Today, visitors to the castle travel from far to wander around its stunning grounds, explore the nooks and crannies of the castle, and, of course, kiss the Blarney Stone.
Charles Fort is a 17th-century relic of Kinsale. Built at the commission of King Charles II, the fortress served defense purposes as a military fort. Designed by William Robinson, the star-shaped citadel has witnessed several momentous events of the country’s history, which include the Williamite War of 1690 and the Irish Civil War of 1922-23. Take a guided tour of the fortress to learn about the rich history of the country through the lens of the magnificent Charles Fort.
Whether you’re staying in or visiting the city of Cork, Ireland, the weekends are a perfect opportunity to visit Camden Fort Meagher. It was built in the 16th Century as a part of the costal defense system for the country, and continues to be a prime example of the defensive architecture of the era. The fort is known for its Brennan Torpedo exhibit and has additional fame as the only 9/11 commemoration exhibition outside of the United States of America.
Kinsale is an exceptionally picturesque small town with an interesting history. An important naval base in the 17th and 18th centuries, Kinsale is a popular yachting hub today. Playing host to a number of sailing events, the town attracts a steady stream of tourists. Among gastronomes, the town is renowned for its superlative cuisine and for the annual International Gourmet Festival, which attracts food lovers from all over. Apart from soaking in the rich culture of the town, one must visit the Desmond Castle here. Locally dubbed as the "French Prison", the fortress is a prominent attraction. Some of the other unmissable spots of interest include the Kinsale Regional Museum and Courthouse and the Garrylucas Beach.