gougane barra and saint finbar

The name Gougane Barra is derived from Saint Finbar, who built a monastery on the island in the area in the 6th century. There is nothing now of the early building, but there is a square court with "cells" from a later date and the charming oratory still remains and can be visited.
The lake, the source of Cork's River Lee, is set amidst magnificent mountain scenery. In the lake is a tiny island, reached by a causeway. This was the site of the hermitage of St. Finbar, the patron saint and founder of Cork City. September 25th is the Feast of St. Finbar, and on the Sunday after that date an annual pilgrimage is held.
A small church at Gougane Barra was built on the island near the monastery at the end of the 19th century.