The English Market
Munster
The English Market is a renowned municipal food market located in the heart of Cork city, Ireland. Established originally in 1788 as a meat market, it has evolved into a vibrant hub known for its mid-19th century Victorian architecture, including a distinctive cast iron fountain, gabled central bay, and stained glass lunette windows. The market stretches from Princes Street to the Grand Parade, combining two historic market areas. It offers a rich variety of fresh produce, with particular acclaim for its fresh fish, butchers, and local specialties such as drisheen, spiced beef, and buttered eggs. Despite suffering significant fire damage in 1980 and a lesser fire in 1986, the market was sympathetically restored, winning a conservation award. It remains a bustling social and commercial hub, attracting both locals and tourists, and has hosted notable visitors including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles. The market also gained cultural prominence as a filming location for "The Young Offenders."
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Astuce: Visit The English Market during weekdays in the morning for the freshest selection and a less crowded experience. Tickets are not required for entry, but purchasing gift vouchers in advance is recommended for gifts. The market offers a variety of organic and locally sourced products, and visitors can enjoy personalized service from longstanding family-run stalls. Check the official website for opening hours and special events.
Faits intéressants
- •The English Market was described by chef Rick Stein as the 'best covered market in the UK and Ireland.'
- •It features a cast iron fountain at its center, a notable architectural highlight.
- •The market served as a filming location for the 2016 film 'The Young Offenders' and its subsequent TV series.
- •Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles both visited the market during official state visits to Ireland, being personally served by a local fishmonger.
- •The market won a Gold Medal from the Europa Nostra heritage foundation for its conservation efforts after the 1980 fire restoration.
Histoire
The English Market was established in 1788 as a meat shambles known as the 'new markets.' Its name was coined in the 19th century to distinguish it from the nearby 'Irish Market.' The market underwent major reconstruction in the mid-19th century, notably by architects John Benson and Robert Walker, who expanded and enhanced its structure.
In 1980, a devastating fire caused extensive damage, leading to a careful restoration that preserved the Victorian design and earned a Europa Nostra Gold Medal for conservation.
A smaller fire occurred in 1986 but caused less damage.
The market celebrated its 230th anniversary in 2018, marking its long-standing presence in Cork's commercial life.
Guide du lieu
Princes Street Entrance1862
The main ornamental entrance constructed in 1862 by Sir John Benson, featuring a tripartite façade that welcomes visitors into the market’s historic interior.
Cast Iron Fountain
Located centrally within the market, this fountain is a key architectural and social focal point around which the market activity revolves.
Galleried Court and Stained Glass Lunette Windowsmid-19th century
The interior includes a gabled central bay with archways and distinctive stained glass lunette windows that bathe the market in natural colored light, enhancing the ambiance.
