Cork Heritage Open Day to celebrate city’s treasured past
Marguerite Kiely
Cork Heritage Open Day is set to showcase the rich history and culture of Cork this coming Saturday 12 August. A city-wide event with over 35 buildings open to the public and 60 events planned, the day marks the beginning of National Heritage Week, running from 12 to 20 August.
The event promises an array of activities, including free talks exploring Cork's past and its people. Noteworthy speakers like Anne Twomey from the Shandon Area History Group will delve into the life of Mary Elmes at the City Library, while military historian Gerry White will shed light on the Civil War in Cork at St Peter's. Brian Maher will lead a discussion on the Lee Baths at the Kingsley Hotel, offering visitors insights into the city's history.
Guided walking tours are also on the agenda, catering to various interests. History enthusiasts can walk through the Regional Park in Ballincollig with Jenny Webb, discovering the secrets of the 19th century Gunpowder Mills.
An audio tour by the Shandon Area Renewal Association will lead visitors to places where famous figures once resided, and historian Liam O’ hÚigín will guide a tour through the Middle Parish (Marsh Area).
Thomas Heising will take attendees on a journey to explore key geological locations in Cork City, and Antóin O’Callaghan will enlighten visitors about the city’s-built heritage.
In addition to walking tours, the day will offer guided tours of prominent Cork buildings, including the Military Museum Collins Barracks, Backwater Artist Group, Cork Printmakers, the National Sculpture Factory, City Hall, Elizabeth Fort, St Peter’s Cork, the Cork Opera House, the Masonic Hall, and Fota House.
Speaking about the day, The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Kieran McCarthy said: “As a local historian over the past three decades, I have had many days walking around Cork city showcasing to locals and tourists the city’s rich built heritage.
“Cork Heritage Open is not only a celebration of some of our most beautiful buildings and their details and nuanced stories, but also an annual call that Cork’s history and its architecture is important to mind and important to Cork’s sense of pride and sense of place.”
For those interested in architectural conservation, Civic Trust House will host a series of talks by leading conservation architects and engineers, providing in-depth insights into Georgian windows.
Families will not be left out, as several outdoor events cater to all ages. The Coal Quay Festival will offer music, song, and family fun activities, while Wild Work will lead a biodiversity walk-through of Ballybrack Woods (The Mangala).
Nano Nagle Place will host craft markets and family-friendly activities, encouraging people to create an 18th century dollhouse from a shoebox.
See corkheritageopenday.ie for a list of all events.