The Area Around Shandon Church by Ekaterinburg
The area around Shandon Church is one of the oldest and most atmospheric parts of Cork. Though within 10 minutes walk of Patrick Street it's a different world altogehter. This is very much 'old Cork'and the people who live here are mostly people whose families have lived here for generations. High up on the hill, with narrow streets and lanes running back down to the river, it's like a little kingdom unto itself. In the very centre is the rotunda-like performing arts centre, the Firkin Crane, facing onto a large piazza-like space. Diagonally across is the huge neo-classical facade of the Craft Centre and next door to that, the Butter Museum. The Church and famous Bells of Shandon look down on this little scene and the whole effect is about as picturesque and continental looking as you are going to get in Cork. There is one restaurant here but no cafes or shops. There are several local pubs in the surrounding streets though and calling into any one of them for a drink should add to your enjoyment of the visit. The church is certainly worth a visit but unless you have a specific interest in Butter, then I'd skip the museum. The best way to enjoy Shandon is to just wander in and out the lanes and alleys and make your own discoveries.For more Shandon pictures, see my travelogue on the Inro page.
