Mizen Head
Mizen Point
The Arched Bridge at Mizen Point in County Cork
Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor CentreMizen Point
Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor Centre
Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor Centre
Mizen Point
The Arched Bridge at Mizen Point in County Cork
Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor CentreMizen Head in County Cork is the most southwesterly point in Ireland. It is home to the Mizen Head Fog Signal Station, which was built in 1909.
It was built by the Irish Lights Board to combat the high loss of life and shipping on the rocks. For example in December 1908, the SS Irada was wrecked at Mizen Head, leading to many deaths. However, 63 lives were saved by the workmen and engineers who were building the new station.
Mizen Point, County Cork
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Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor CentreMizen Point, County Cork
Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor Centre
Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor Centre
Mizen Point, County Cork
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Image courtesy of Mizen Head Visitor CentreUp until 1993, the station was manned by 3 keepers. However, when the station became automated, it was decided to use the keeper's old living quarters as a tourist attraction called 'Mizen Vision'.
In 1994, the centre was opened, which helped create new jobs in the region. As well as the centre and the bridge, there is the '99 steps' too. The 99 steps are a long series of steps along the pathway that leads to the signal station.