There are few villages in Ireland that pack such a wealth of history in to such a small area. A rough translation from its old Irish name (Gleann Iubhair) means the glen of the yew trees. Its offers a microcosm of Ireland’s history with ancient prehistoric sites, medieval buildings, old mills combined with some modern state of the art stores. Whether your pleasure be peaceful walks and leisurely fishing or more strenuous pursuits such as horse riding of golf, Glanworth’s rural setting guarantees a visit at your pace.
Starting Glanworth’s history is Labbacallee Megalithic Tomb which was constructed almost 5,000 years ago during the early bronze age and is said to be the finest grave of its type in Ireland.
Fast forward to the 13th century to the time of the Condon’s who built a Norman fort that still dominated the village skyline and is known as Glanworth Castle. The castle was taken over during this period by another Norman family ‘The Roches’ who ended up ruling most of the North Cork area and who subsequently invited the Dominican Order to establish an Abbey which they did in 1475.
Glanworth Bridge is a mid-15th century structure and is said to be the narrowest and oldest public bridge in everyday use in Europe. The 13 arch bridge (the first arch being buried with the construction of the Mill race) in its picturesque setting under Glanworth Castle, is one of the most photographed in the country. Care is to be taken when driving on to the bridge as it is only wide enough for 1 vehicle at a time.
In the 18th Century Glanworth was touched by the Industrial revolution with the opening of its first Mill. This is now a 4 star B&B with a restaurant.
Glanworth Holy Shrine. The shrine marks the site of a house where a blacksmith lived before he emigrated to America in the late 19 century. His son became the Archbishop of Boston, Cardinal Richard Cushing who officiated at the marriage and burial of the US assassinated President John. F. Kennedy.
Glanworth is approximately 10KM’s from Fermoy. Simply follow the sign posts or ask directions locally.
