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Towns of Cork
Cobh —County Cork
The Great Island on which the town of Cobh stands is the largest island in Cork Harbour. The island has a history which dates back to pre-Christian times but the town itself is comparatively new, dating from the 17th century. Cobh's varied history includes a reputation as a health and seaside resort.
The town is best known however, as the country's main emigration port following the great Famine of 1846-1848. In 1849 Cove was visited by Queen Victoria and the town was renamed 'Queenstown' in her honour. In 1921 the local Urban Council reverted to the old name 'Cove' in the Irish form spelling it as 'Cobh'. Cobh's maritime history is recalled in The Queenstown Story - a major Heritage Centre in the town.
