CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory

Blackrock Castle was originally built on the Lee in 1582 by the citizens of Cork as a watch tower and fort to guard the river entrance against pirates and other invaders. In 1600 a round tower was constructed by the Elizabethan government at the request of the citizens of Cork to protect them from marauding pirates and other invaders.

Following a charter by James I in 1608, Blackrock Castle was handed over to the City of Cork. In 1722 the old tower was destroyed by fire and was rebuilt with an octagonal room topped with a cupola. The castle was used at this time as the Corporation banquet hall and for “throwing the dart”.

The original fortified structure, which survives at lower levels at Blackrock Castle, is today a National Monument and probably the oldest surviving structure still in use in the city of Cork.

Join the team at MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory from 10am to 1pm as they explore this history of this iconic castle and the shared cultural heritage of the night sky. Free but booking essential. See www.bco.ie/cork-heritage-open-day