A Day Missed

Unfortunately, arrived in Cork yesterday morning and was unable to get a wifi connection. Let's hope this connection doesn't fade. 

Cork is a city of rivers and bridges it seems. Naturally it has its fair share of churches and cathedrals. I wonder if church attendance has increased, or has it dropped since the catastrophic fall of the Tiger? However, above the doors of Finn Barr's church there are many trades depicted. I think the one on the left gives a good idea as to what the Irish excelled at in the past under their English masters. 
Just a stone's throw from the hostel is the Cork College University, founded around 150 years ago. The great hall (Aula) is lined with many of the old text books used about 100 years ago. 

The Aula. Cork University

Its a fantastically sunny day today. Listening to the radio here in the hostel, the presenter was very upbeat about the next few days but finished with the fact that its back to normal next week. Thanks mate. 
So, made my way to the world famous Blarney Castle on a local bus. Just in case its not a bell ringer for you, its where the Blarney stone is kissed, hanging head down from the top of the castle keep.  

Blarney Castle

Emson has arrived

In Blarney Castle park

The surrounding park is pretty large with perfectly manicured lawns, some very large trees which tend to flourish here in the Irish climate. Come to think of it there are a lot of very tall Irish people too. Visiting these places can be a bit expensive but being a 'senior' I usually get a reduction. Not with price of cigarettes though. 9 euros a pack!!!. Glad I bought a good supply at Prague airport. 

One of the older bridges in Cork