Ireland - Discover <b>Cork (Ireland)</b>

Discover Cork (Ireland)


Cork is the second-largest city in Ireland after Dublin. The history of Cork as an urban centre goes back to around the year 920, a time when the Vikings founded a trading centre in the area. Despite the constant attacks by English and Viking forces, the city grew and developed to become one of the most important towns in Ireland. It got international recognition in 2011 when the Queen of England visited their famous trade centre: The English Market.

Many historic sites and centres in the area depict the trade and commercial activities that were carried out around the city. For administration purposed, Cork is divided into eight districts: Ballincollig-Carrigaline, Blarney-Macroom, Cobh-Glanmire, East Cork, Bandon-Kinsale, Fermoy, Kanturk-Mallow, and West Cork.

There are many places you should visit in Cork City. One of the important historical centres in the city is St. Fin Barre's Cathedral. This cathedral is positioned on a site that has been used for worship since the 7th century. It was built in the 19th century and still has an active congregation. Some elements of the medieval building have been maintained. For example, it has the original Dean's Gate and the carved heads.

Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral [Well Worth a Visit] REF-106786

Another key attraction in this place is Cork City Gaol, a museum which used to serve as a prison. The prison was opened early in the 19th century and was meant to house anyone who broke the law inside the boundaries of the city. Brian Dillon, the famous Fenian movement leader, was remanded in this prison before attending his trial. The first woman to be elected to the British parliament, Constance Markievicz, was also imprisoned in the Cork City Gaol in the early 20th century. At the time, the Cork City Gaol had been turned into an exclusively women's prison.