COUNTY
CORK
THE VIEW FROM THE
RAMPARTS AT BLARNEY CASTLE, BEFORE
LEANING OVER (BACKWARDS) TO KISS THE FAMOUS STONE.
Cork
– both the city and county are full of contrasts and contradictions.
The city has a peaceful atmosphere although it is Ireland’s second
city, third, if Belfast in the north is included (and locally claims
to be the cultural capital) and whilst it is full of bustle there are
many things to slow everything down.
At its heart is the River Lee which lends the city a distinct ambience,
especially at night when, dappled with the city lights, the tidal swell
lazily pushes back up the river (thus endorsing – or explaining
– the enigma of in the morning it appears to flow one way and in
the afternoon, the other). The river separates to form an island which
is not immediately noticeable but explains the presence of water and
bridges in the city centre and on this island is the centre proper.
New and old rub shoulders throughout the city which at any turn changes
from wide street to narrow lane. And everywhere is afflicted by delightfully
chaotic car parking which in itself helps underscore the pleasant pace
of things. It is inconceivable to think of anyone getting stressed-out
while driving the streets.
This said, do not mistake a slower pace for being behind the times,
that the city certainly is not. Its streets encompass some of the country’s
finest stores and the arts in particular has special pride of place
with its citizens who seriously enjoy and promote them.
