Spike island official opening September 2016 Cobh Cork Ireland tourism trips visits

Spike Island in Cork harbour has over 1300 years of history, starting with a monastery in the 6th century. The first of 3 forts was built there in 1779 and today there stands Fort Mitchel, which at 24 acres is one of the largest star shaped forts in the world, holding 3000 men. The fortress was converted into a prison in 1848 as the famine drove up the prisoner numbers, and Spike Island became the largest prison in the world in the 1850's, holding over 2300 men.
The island would be used by the military for over 100 years before it became a prison again in 1985. It was redeveloped by Cork County Council in 2005/16 and reopened following 6 million Euro of investment.
Today visitors can take the ferry from Cobh and enjoy a fully guided tour through the island to the Fort. Attractions include the 18520's prison, the modern prison cells, Ireland's largest military gun park, Exhbitions on the Aud, penal and military subjects, and a fully stocked cafe and gift shop.
Hear the history, unlock the mystery, at your Spike Island.