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Cork info.
Cork is the largest of all the Irish counties, and in many ways the most varied. Rich farmlands and river valleys contrast with the wild sandstone hills of the west. The county's magnificent coastline has been shaped by the unforgiving Atlantic into great bays and secret coves, spectacular rocky headlands and long soft golden strands. Kinsale, half an hour west of Cork city, is one of the prettiest small towns in Ireland and is world famous for its cuisine. The town's annual Gourmet Festival attracts food lovers from far and wide. Built in 1446, Blarney Castle houses the renowned Blarney Stone. Millions of visitors come to the castle each year to kiss this stone and receive the magical eloquence legend has it that the stone bestows. Cork city takes its name from the marshy land on the banks of the River Lee - the Irish form of its name means marsh - on which St. Finbarr founded a monastery around AD 650. The city's narrow alleys, waterways and Georgian architecture give it a distinctly Continental feel. Since the 19th century, when Cork was a base for the National Fenian movement, the city has had a reputation for political rebelliousness. Today, this mood is reflected in the city's attitude to the arts and its bohemian spirit, which is very much in evidence at the lively annual jazz festival in October. |
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