An Gaeltacht
The Irish language, Gaeilge, was once the only language spoken in Ireland and some communities continue to preserve the country’s linguistic heritage to this day.
There are four Irish-speaking communities in Cork where Gaeilge is the everyday language for young and old, in schools, businesses, shops, hospitals and on the internet – indeed in every aspect of their lives.
Cork’s gaeltacht areas are in Baile Mhúirne (Ballyvourney), Béal Átha an Ghaorthaidh (Ballingeary), Cúil Aodha (Coolea) and Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear Island). There are summer colleges where young people can spend a number of weeks immersing themselves in Irish traditional music, dance, folklore and – of course – the Irish language.
But even if you don’t want to learn Gaeilge – you’ll receive a very warm and traditional welcome any time in any of the gaeltacht communities.
