Statio Bene Fida Carinis — A Safe Harbour for Ships — the motto on the Cork coat of arms underscores our proud maritime heritage while announcing to the world that this is a safe and welcoming city, a city that stretches out a hand of friendship to all. It came as no surprise in 2023 when international media consortium, Condé Nast declared Cork to be the second friendliest city in Europe. Cork is a bowl-shaped shopping basket centring on an ancient fluvial island, embraced by two channels of the River Lee. They were the New Cork of the 19th century, arriving into the city from the surrounding countryside, on the coattails of the post Famine generation. Cork for me will forever be an unhurried stroll across Patrick's Bridge looking for pleasure and what else might betide.

Source: Irish Examiner February 20, 2026 10:20 UTC