Spike Island, County Cork

Photo

by Kondephy

/ CC BY-SA 4.0

Spike Island, located in Cork Harbour near Cobh, Ireland, is a site rich in history and intrigue. Initially serving as a monastic settlement as far back as the 7th century, the island has had various roles throughout the centuries, including use as a military fort, a convict prison, and a defense installation. In the 19th century, it housed one of the largest prisons in the world, often referred to as "Ireland's Alcatraz." The island's fort, known as Fort Mitchel, is a star-shaped fortress that adds to its historical allure.

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