Situated by the banks of the River Lee, University College Cork is a gorgeous, ornate gothic structure with a rich reputation for academic excellence.
Cork University College is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland and was founded in 1845 as one of three Queen’s colleges located in Belfast, Galway and Cork. The university won international acclaim when it was named Irish University of the Year by the Sunday Times in 2011.
The university was built on a hill overlooking the Lee, offering stunning views across the river banks. The campus itself is immaculate with several paths, benches and viewpoints. The site is believed to be connected with St Finbarr, the patron saint of Cork. This connection is reflected in the university motto: “Where Finbarr taught, let Munster learn.”
The Tudor Gothic quadrangle on campus is a particular point of interest for visitors and the Long Hall and clock tower are well preserved and picturesque. The grass quad is a perfect place to have a picnic on sunny days and enjoy views over the river.
Of the university’s alumni, several particularly stand out. Actress Fiona Shaw attended the university as an undergraduate and philosopher and mathematician, George Boole, was the first professor of mathematics in the mid-1800s.
The university now has over 18,000 students and is an exciting, bustling place to visit during term-time. There are several on-campus bars, restaurants and a fantastic student’s union, where visitors can enjoy food and a pint at a much discounted price.
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