building misc

Freestanding shaft, built c.1850, as ventilation shaft for subterranean railway tunnel. Circular-plan shaft with square-profile plinth. Random rubble sandstone walls on random rubble stone plinth, with soldier coping to south section. Sited in grounds to the rear of St Patrick’s Hospital.

One of a group of four, this shaft is an important element of Cork’s railway heritage. It is a fascinating reminder of the early days of train travel when steam engines created large quantities of vapour and smoke, and consequently ventilation shafts were required. It retains its original form and massing, and remains an notable addition to the local built heritage. Local legends have grown around these unusual structures, and it is said that they fulfilled an additional role as an escape route for the British military stationed at the nearby barracks.