Day 6 - Cork

I had planned on going to the Mizen Penninsula today, but the small tour vans weren’t going there and if I were to take the public bus, it would take 4 hours…1 way. So instead of going there, I hiked up the hill across from the hotel and paid a visit to the Cork Gaol. Many times, visiting a prison is a great way to learn about the local history. The self-guided tour was well done, but I had more fun listening to questions from the elementary school kids. The prison opened in 1824 and closed in 1923. During its history it housed men, women and children. During the worst of times, people would commit petty crimes and when caught would ask to be imprisoned in order “to pay for their sin.” In reality, even though prison conditions were harsh, inmates were provided with 3 meals a day which was a better prospect than dying of starvation in their own home. It was rather ironic that while learning of the bleak history, sitting on the ledge next to me was a full champagne glass left from the previous night's festivities. Apparently, the prison can be rented out for parties and events.

After the prison, I continued up the hill in search of St. Kevin’s Asylum. Matt’s co-worker, Mick, presented the challenge of paying a visit to the abandoned asylum since I had done everything I could in the area. St. Kevin’s is a large red brick building with 3 chimneys on the hilltop across from our hotel. I accepted the challenge but unfortunately could not complete the task. The grounds were fenced off and only the ponies had access. So, that was a bust.

The hike back down to the city took me through some pretty hidden parts of Cork At the base of Shaky Bridge was a little man fishing. His pup was 100% intent on willing a fish to bite the hook. The boys were out in their finest whites for a game of cricket. I watched for awhile and still don’t understand the game.

Matt got home late. Only one more day of work for him and then he will be released from captivity. Dinner at The Oliver Plunkett Pub, that we went back to try something else. My Irish stew was as equally good as my fish n chips. However, I went back to the Guinness.

On the way home we walked down to Shakey Bridge. It's still daylight at 10pm which is good, otherwise, I don't think Matt would have seen any daylight so far.