About

Spike Island is a 104 acre island that’s located in Cork Harbour, Ireland. The island was used as many different things over the years. It was a monastic settlement, a military base, and a prison. Now it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Ireland.

Military Base

The island’s first fortification was built in 1779 to protect the harbour from invasion. The 24 acre star shaped Fort Mitchel is the largest fortress in Ireland and one of the largest military structures in the world.

Prison

Spike Island held thousands of prisoners during it’s 36 years as a prison. In the first few years of operation, over 1000 prisoners died due to harsh living conditions, diseases, maltreatment, and lack of medical care.

In August 1985 there was a prison riot. The riot began when prisoners set a block in the prison on fire, which led to them overpowering the officers. While the officers fled the prison for their safety, the prisoners broke into the maintenance stores and armed themselves with weapons. The rioters than made their way to the roof of the administration block and stayed there throughout the evening.

Tourist attraction

Spike Island is now a very popular tourist attraction. There are a variety of things to do on the island, including guided tours, immersive exhibits, scenic views of Cork Harbour from the island, and exploring the prison cells.

How to get to Spike Island

Spike Island can only be reached by ferry. Ferries depart daily from Kennedy Pier.

For ferry schedule and to book tickets, checkout Sailing Schedule.

For more posts about Ireland, click Ireland.