kinsale harbour

This is a natural harbour formed by the estuary of the Bandon River.
In 1601 some of the Spanish Armada landed at Kinsale. The Spanish fleet consisted of 3,000 men; reduced by the adversity from a force of 6,000, they were far too weak to withstand the subsequent blockade of the harbour by the Anglo-Irish Privy Council. Irish chieftains O'Neill and O'Donnell decided to lend what strength they could to the Spanish.
The Luisitania was torpedoed off the Old Head of Kinsale on 7th May 1915, with the loss of 1,198 lives. It was a determining factor in the USA joining forces with the Allies against Nazi Germany.
The town of Kinsale is now known for its hospitality and international cuisine.