Charlesfort, Kinsale

Situated on the approach to Kinsale Harbour, Charles Fort is undoubtedly one of the finest examples of a 17th century foritfication in Ireland. From the 17th century onwards, the design and construction of fortifications in Ireland was influenced by European designs, particularly those of Sebastien de Vauban (1633-1707), Chief Engineer of Louis XIV. Vauban was a specialist in siege warfare and under him French fortification techniques reached their zenith.

The design of the bastioned fortress of Charles Fort followed Vauban's principles as far as the construction of the ramparts, bastions and covered way are concerned. However, rather than the usual pentagonal fort, Charles Fort was adapted to suit the topography of the site. The fort was primarily constructed as a coastal defence to prevent foreign naval forces from entering Kinsale harbour. Higher ground inland overlooked the fort and hence it was quite vulnerable to attack from land based forces.

The above is an excerpt from the Charles Fort visitors' guide. Charles Fort is a wonderful attraction just outside the town of Kinsale in Co. Cork. It features stunning views over Kinsale harbour, and the grounds and ruins themselves are spectacular. I highly recommend anyone who visits Kinsale, or indeed Cork, to go and see Charles Fort, as it one of the finest attractions in Ireland. It is a place soaked in history, and on a fine summer's day is just even pleasant for a walk around.