Skibbereen: The Famine Story
Learn about the Great Famine of the 1840s when over one million Irish people died.
Skibbereen became infamous as one of the worst affected areas in all of Ireland. The true enormity of this national tragedy is revealed in microcosm through Skibbereen's Famine stories.
- Rediscover this era through exhibits, dramatisations and interactive stations.
- Listen to personal account of those who experienced the Famine in Skibbereen.
- Take a 'virtual tour' of Famine sites in the town.
- Follow with a visit to Abbeystrowry burial pits where up to 10,000 victims are buried.
Discover Lough Hyne, Ireland's first Marine Nature Reserve and unique salt-water lake. Find out a about the history, folklore and formation of this renowned natural phenomenon at Skibbereen Heritage Centre before you visit the lough (5km from Centre).
Skibbereen Heritage Centre also provides a Genealogy Service for the greater West Cork area, by appointment.