A few words about Cork

Cork has an area of 37.3 square kilometers. It is situated in the Country of Crok, Province of Munster, and has a population of 123 062. It is the administrative center of Cork County and the second-largest city in Ireland.
Cork was originally a Spartan-type settlement, established by Saint Finbar. Much of it was rebuilt over the ages, after suffering damage from the many fires and attacks inflicted by Vikings and other Scandinavian tribes. At a certain point in history Cork was completely surrounded by walls. The title of Mayor of Cork was officially established by royal deed in 1318, and transformed to Lord Mayor in 1900.
During the War of Independence with Britain Cork was partially destroyed by fire. It was also a major battle scene. During the Civil War of Ireland Cork was captured by anti-Treaty forces for a term. Later the pro-Treaty national army took control again on the city's territory.
We couldn't possibly go on without mentioning its railway system, a part of its most important heritage. For a city of this size, it has had as much as 8 train stations at times, a singular achievement in itself. It is a very important link of the Irish railway infrastructure. The routes link a number of picturesque neighboring towns, with the main line naturally being from Dublin. Freight trains are used to transport stock and cargo.
The river Lee runs thorugh Cork, and the central part of the city is actually an island in the river. The Lee flows into Cork Harbor, which is one of the biggest natural ports in the world. Cork is one of Ireland's biggest seaports.
The name Cork means "swampy place" in Irish, but don't let that worry you and put you off from visiting this beautiful city. The name only emerged because the city is located on the Lee. Cork's nickname is "Rebel Country" - it may have suffered invations and wars throughout history, but it has always fought back valiantly. A great deal of native pride is evident - residents of this city call it the real Irish capital, as Dublin has largely been under the rule of foreign nations over the ages, and is hardly a substitute for the typically Irish authenticity Cork presents.
Cork's aquatic territory is truly something to behold. A landmark is Patrick's Bridge, stretching over the Lee and connecting the two banks. Cork is not a true holiday destination in the most common sense - there are no shimmering lights, no glamorous attractions, and no bustling streets. This city is for those seeking a quiet rest in a real Irish atmostphere.
Other interesting sites are St. Finbarre's Cathedral, named after the founder of Cork, and St. Mary's Cathedral. You cannot miss the most dominant building in the city - Shandon Church Tower, which is open to the public. Its clock tower is distinctive in that the clock shows a different time from certain angles of the building.
Cork displays remarkable architecture, a large part of it Georgian style. The main street, Patrick Street, was redesigned prior to 2004. It is the major shopping outlet of the city. Marvelous buildings surround it, and it offers the convenience of wide sidewalks. The old business district of Cork is a charming replica of the 19th century.
Fitzgerald Park is perfect for those who cannot go a day without exercise. It is located west of Cork. Shoppers in quest of fresh produce must go to the English Market, which is within easy reach from all of the larger streets. The market first opened in 1610. An interesting transport fact is that cross-continental route E8 begins in Cork and ends in Istanbul.
It may be sparsely populated by world standards, but the cultural life of this city is fulfilling and vivacious. Music plays a big part of it - the Cork School of Music is a much-respected establishment.