The Irish Republic’s second city is known to its locals by bold nicknames like ‘Ireland’s Real Capital’ or ‘The Rebel City’. Cork was built on the River Lee, with its city centre occupying an island at the point where two of its channels divide.
Cork is a major Irish seaport, with docks and quays clustering around its harbour area. Beyond this, its architecture reveals how the city has evolved over many centuries. The Red Abbey, constructed from red sandstone, is one remnant of the original medieval walled town. There are several magnificent cathedrals, but the religious building that has become synonymous with Cork itself is the church tower of Shandon, a 120-foot high structure that dominates the north of the city. Cork escorts like to visit the observation area which offers superb panoramic views.
A short 8 km jaunt to Cork’s northwest takes you to the charming village of Blarney, noted for its ancient castle. Within its walls you’ll find the Stone of Eloquence – the so-called Blarney Stone – which tradition claims will bestow the ‘gift of the gab’ on all who kiss the stone. You can confront Ireland’s more violent history at Cork City Gaol, where exhibits explain the reality of the prisoner experience between 1824 and 1923.
The city’s most renowned thoroughfare is St Patrick’s Street; very popular with escorts in Cork. This was renovated in 2004 to create a pedestrian-friendly shopping precinct and has won the award for Ireland’s Best Shopping Area twice since. The street is famous for its curved shape (it was built over an arm of the River Lee) and contains many well-known retail outlets.
The local nightlife embraces what the Irish refer to as the ‘craic’ – informal, bustling, traditional pubs where the drinks flow, the conversation is enjoyable and impromptu music sessions are liable to erupt at any moment. The musical backdrop ranges from archaic folk songs to the latest chart hits.
