Ursuline Convent — Ballinure (cork By.)

In Blackrock. According to owners, built in 1720 to design of Reuben Harvey for Christopher Tuckey; enlarged in 1770; further enlarged and converted to Ursuline convent in 1825. Entrance front (N) of 15 bays over basement. Central 3 bays recessed; probably contains core of early 18th century house but is of late 18th century appearance. Central rectangular door flanked by side lights, appraoched by sweep of stone steps. Engaged doric columns support entablature over lights and pediment over door with date 1770.Central 1st floor Venetian window; large oval window with elaborate glazing in centre of 2nd floor. Two bays on either side of central recess addedin 1770; framed by ashlar pilasters and roofed by shallow hopped projections from main roof. Plate glass sash windows. Walls rendered exceptfor basment where coursed limestone ashlar is exposed. In 1825 L-shaped additions added to both ends prolonging front elevation by 4 bays in similar design to central portion and chapel and choir added to E. Garden front (S) of 9 bays with 3 bay projections of both ends added in 1825. Three-bay central breakfront framed by stone quoins which stop short of eaves; roofed by shallow hopped projection from main roof line; probable contains core of earlier house. Central round-headed door with engaged wooden columns supporting fanlight; approached by sweep of steps. Sash windows with glazing bars. Hipped roof throughout. See Excavations 2003, 40. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009