Explore Elizabeth Fort, one of the oldest upstanding structures in Cork City which has been in use for more than 400 years. This 17th century star-shaped fort built in the aftermath of the Battle of Kinsale (1601), served to reinforce English dominance and protect the walled city of Cork below.

It has served many functions during its lifetime, including use as a military barracks, a convict depot for the transportation of women prisoners, a food depot during The Great Famine—a time referred to as ‘The Emergency’ in Ireland. It was also used as an RIC station and, until 2013, a Garda station.

A visit to the fort offers panoramic views of the city and photo opportunities with the various displays bringing life to the fort including an air-raid shelter.

Deeply imbedded into Cork’s colourful history, a guided tour is recommended to hear about the Fort’s vibrant past and listen to some of the many stories that emanate from its walls. A visit to Elizabeth Fort should be on everyone’s bucket list. A wonderful hidden gem in the heart of beautiful Cork City.

A wonderful new exhibition tells the stories of the lives and times that have impacted on the fort – and of Cork – through maps, images and text. It also recounts the tragic story of 150 female convicts and their children who lost their lives on the ill-fated ship, ‘The Neva’.