Overview
Cork Harbour is a natural harbour and river estuary at the mouth of the River Lee in County Cork, Ireland. It is one of several which lay claim to the title of "second largest natural harbour in the world by navigational area".
Description
Cork Harbour, situated off Ireland’s south coast, is believed to be the second largest natural harbour in the world. Steeped in history, the harbour is famous for its natural beauty and discreet man made military fortifications. Spike Island is centrally located within view of the mouth of the harbour, and was part of a strategic military coastal defence system for the surrounding areas. Fort Mitchel on Spike Island protected the harbour along with 3 other neighbouring forts, Fort Carlisle on the eastern approach, Camden Fort Meagher and Fort Templebreedy on the western side. It was built to protect against the constant threat of invasion and there were many, from a French threat in the early 19th century to a German threat in the early 20th century. Before this the Spanish had landed troops in nearby Kinsale.