Visiting Cork - Ireland

Located on the southern coastline of Ireland is Europe’s Capital of Culture back in ’05 – the city of Cork. This vast seaport city provides a safe haven to thousands of ships and a charming retreat to the country’s visitors. If you happen to pass by, check out the many delights that Cork has to offer. You will certainly be enchanted by its many bridges that inspire romance, its vibrant markets with their exciting finds and Cork's eye pleasing architecture - all sure to impress.

St. Anne’s Church is Cork’s most recognizable landmark and you can’t find a better place to start your exploration of the area. It is strategically located on top of a hill overlooking the city. Climb up its stairs to the parapet and enjoy the 360 degree picturesque panorama. If you are musically inclined, check out your skills and try to play a tune using St. Anne’s eight bells.

A stone’s throw away from the church is another Cork attraction, Firkin Crane, where you’ll find the city’s butter market that dates back to 1800s. For an insight on the importance of the butter industry to the city, proceed to O’Connell Square and check out the interesting exhibits in the Butter Museum.

 You should know that the Cork is famous for its markets. The English Market is one of the most popular in the area and definitely a must-see. With its vibrant atmosphere, interesting people and wide array of food products on display, you’ll surely have a fantastic time browsing around and sampling the local fare.

Artists and art aficionados will be glad to know that art thrives in the territory. A testament to the local’s love for all forms of artistic expression is the annual Cork Midsummer Festival. If you happen to visit during the latter part of June, treat yourself to fascinating performances in theater, visual arts, music and film from various venues all throughout the city.

For year round attractions, culture vultures will find the lavish Cork Opera House with its one thousand seat capacity, vast orchestra pit and exciting performances truly exhilarating. The Everyman Palace is also worth visiting for its stunning Victorian motif and wide range of performances. You may also want to check out the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery and its more than 2,000 art work collection. It features European paintings, Greek and Roman sculptures and contemporary video installations among others.

If you find gaols (jails) interesting, then head off to the City Gaol at Convent Avenue. It displays a depiction of prison life back in the 18th century. It also houses a radio museum that should be of interest to electronic and history buffs alike.

Finally, the Blarney Castle is a must-see. It is one of the country’s oldest palaces but its magnetic lure is the Stone of Eloquence that can be found in the vicinity. You may want to give the stone a kiss if you are an aspiring orator. Legend says that anyone who honors it with a kiss will receive the gift of eloquence. You may not believe it but just play along for the sake of a good photo opportunity and an interesting travel story. So, take heart and give the stone a smooch.
 

Sunee is author of this article on Hotels in Thailand. Find more information about Phuket Hotels here.