If you live in Cork, Ireland, you’re known as a Corkonian –
someone fiercely proud of their hometown, so much so, that it’s jokingly
referred to as the People’s Republic of Cork! And there’s a lot of love about
Ireland’s second city. Hugging the banks of the River Lee, it takes its name
from corcaigh, the Gaelic word for “marshy.”
Interestingly, Cork also happens to be the final port of
call for the ill-fated RMS Titanic – we’re currently docked at the very same
pier.
We were blessed with our third sunny day…I should say mostly
sunny. We were in the area three years ago and were forced to cancel our stop
here due to inclimate weather. We’re so glad we made it in this trip – it’s
such a lovely small city, though VERY steep!
Our first stop this morning was Cuskinny Bay – Cork’s
favorite beach we’re told. Cuskinny is also a Nature reserve where wild birds
from all over the world stop off to feed and rest on their migration journey.
The bay itself has been used for many things over the years and was a favorite
in Victorian times when smugglers used the bay to bring their goods ashore
under the cover of darkness.
We both enjoy a great view, so we ventured up to a place
named Rossleague – giving spectacular, panoramic views over Cork Harbor.
Historically, we were told, this location was an advantageous high ground for
defense of the island where attacking enemies could easily be seen approaching.
From there, we wandered over to Belvelly Castle…built by the Hodnett family in
the early 1700’s. The castle was currently undergoing total renovation, and we
were told it will serve as a private residence when complete.
We stopped by the Old Church Cemetary to visit the gravesite
of Jack Doyle, the legenday Irish boxer and movie star. He died in 1978 while
in London, and the locals raised the funds to bring him back home.
St. Colemans Cathedral was a real treat for us! It took
nearly 50 years to complete this magnificent building when work began in 1868.
Unfortunately, it didn’t offer public or paid restroom facilities, at least
what we could find. Long story short here – we eventually found a bar a few
blocks from the church which had just opened (it was 11:30) and the gal on duty
was extremely nice…didn’t even charge me…so we stayed and had a couple beers! Met
some local folks…had a very nice time.
Our walk back to the ship took us down some extremely sharp
stairways in front of the church, and onward down public streets to the
waterfront. You’d think it was a late Friday evening compared with midday on
Sunday as the locals were out having a great time…singing at the top of their lungs!
Back onboard by 1:30, we had a very quiet lunch of burgers
& fries poolside – a very nice day for us!
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