Cork

Earliest historic settlement at Cork was monastery of St Fin Barre, founded 6th or early 7th century (Gwynn and Hadcock 1970, 66). Historical references to Viking settlement date from 846 AD (Jefferies 1985, 15); probably located on S bank of Lee opposite South Gate Bridge (CO074-03412-), however recent excavation in this area produced no material earlier than 12th century (O'Brien 1990). Walled town built on two islands (N and S) in marshy section of river Lee. S island enclosed by 1182, reserved to the Crown; N island, called Dungarvan, regarded as suburb; within walled area by 13th century (Bradley et al. 1985, 25; Candon 1985; Thomas 1992, vol. 2, 62). Bridges linking islands to mainland at N and S ends indicate existence of North and South Main Streets. The number of religious foundations established in late 12th and 13th centuries is a measure of wealth and urban expansion of Cork at this time. Suburbs appear to have declined during 15th century and in 16th century city seems to have occupied little more than area inside medieval walls. Period after 1550 saw economic revival with expanding overseas trade. Old suburbs re-emerged; land reclaimed from marshes to E and W. Return of customs and excise duties for both 1664 and 1668 indicate Cork now second port of Ireland, after Dublin. City besieged by Williamites in 1690; considerable damage caused within city; large gap made in SE section of city wall (O Murchadha 1990). Despite destructive Williamite siege, 17th century period of prosperity; economic improvement continued in 18th century with further reclamations to E and W; many of the watercourses formerly dividing city into islands covered over at this time and city centre took on shape which largely remains today.