Ireland is famous for its small, but atmospheric and soulful towns. One of them is Kinsale, a seaside town with a population of only 5,000 people, but there are more attractions here than in some megacities. On its territory there were two once strategically important forts, two castles, several medieval cathedrals. In order to get acquainted with all the iconic places, five excursion walking routes have been created.
Kinsale is a paradise for those who love narrow streets, fresh seafood and salty sea air. You can’t visit Ireland and not visit the Kinsale fishing spots and the annual gastronomic festival, don’t throw a coin in the fort and enjoy the view of the yacht parking!
Kinsale. History reference
In 1601, the Spanish fleet landed several thousand warriors on the bank of Kinsale to help the Irish against the British. But this did not help: the Spaniards and the Irish were forced to submit to the British, and in 1602 the city passed into English possessions. This left an imprint on the lifestyle of the townspeople, culture, architecture: up to the 18th century, Kinsale was closed to the Irish.
The city today is an interweaving of several cultures, narrow streets and small houses, most of which have retained their medieval appearance. This is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts: locals love to compete with tourists in sport fishing. This is a place where you can relax both soul and body.
Local Attractions
Everyone who includes Kinsale in their tourist itinerary must visit:
- Desmond Castle. Was built around 1600 by Earl Desmond, it was used as customs, and in 1641 was converted into a naval prison for prisoners of war. The facility was destroyed many times, but in the 1990s it was restored and opened to the public.
- Kilbright Castle - one of the oldest in Ireland, was built in 1035. The original function is a fortress, which is proved by two-meter-thick walls, preserved kennels for the famous Irish wolfhounds, and stone gates.
- Garretstown Resort Near Kinsale
- Courthouse - was built in 1706
- Fort Charles - was built in 1677 in the shape of a star, the height of the walls is 12 meters
- French Prison - 15th Century Building on Cork Street
- Church of St. Maltose.
Interesting Facts
- The population of the city is about 5,000 people
- Every year in December there are 2 world famous festivals - the "Gourmet Festival" and the jazz festival
- Kinsale regularly holds high positions in the rankings of the cleanest and most energy-efficient towns in Ireland
- In the 17th century, two forts were built in the city, between which a thick chain was stretched to prevent the entry of ships. In 1805, the naval forces of Great Britain changed their deployment and the city lost its strategic importance.
The object belongs to the cities.
