Cork City, Ireland, Shandon Bells, River Lee

Cork City

Cork is located at the mouth of the Lee River, capital of the South, but considered by Cork people to be the real Capital of Ireland.
It is Ireland's third largest city.

Tradition holds that the city was founded in the late 6th or early 7th century by St. Finbarr, who went there to kill the last dragon in Ireland and who built a monastery on the current south side of the city.

The city is often called "Rebel Cork" because it was a center of the 19^th century Fenian movement and played an active part in the Irish struggle for independence.

Cork people have a great passion for sport, particularly hurling, and this is typified in the naming of a bridge after one of it’s greatest hurlers, namely, Christy Ring Bridge.

Tourist Attractions

Shandon Church (Shandon Bell's) ; the famous steeple is located just off Shandon street on the north side of Cork City and can be seen from many points in the City. Those splendid spires can be seen from many parts of the city.

St.Finbarres Cathedral ;   designed by William Burges for a competition in 1862. At the time, the cathedral's 12th century French appearance was considered out of character and highly unsuitable for the services of a Protestant Church.

Crawford Art Gallert ;  This is one of Cork's finest public buildings. The structure dates from 1724 and was the Custom House for Cork until 1818. Named after William Crawford, who funded a magnificent Renaissance style extension in 1884.

Cork City Gaol (Museaum) ;    Magnificent castle-like, listed gaol building, dating from the 19th Century, with a social history reflected in the stories of former inmates. Furnished cells, lifelike figures and an audio-visual presentation. The gaol also houses a "Radio Museum Experience" incorporating the RTE Museum Collection.

University College Cork ; an excellent example of 19th century University architecture. Designed by Sir Thomas Deane, the main buildings were ranged about three sides of a quadrangle

The English Market. ; A covered market selling a wide variety of goods and fresh produce. The market dates from 1610. The market sells some food products uniquely associated with Cork, such as 'drisheen' and 'crubeens'.

Fitzgeralds Park & Museaum ; The park is a blend of riverside walks, flower beds, trees and a beautiful natural lake with a fountain.