Spike Island to commemorate its history during War of Independence

The island will be the venue for a special series of events this weekend to commemorate its role as an internment camp for up to 1,200 IRA prisoners who were held there during Ireland’s fight for freedom

'This special event commemorates the Irish rebels who risked their lives for the cause of freedom.' Picture: Denis Minihane

Old IRA and British Army reenactors, displays of weaponry from the War of Independence era, informative lectures and a chance to follow in the footsteps of ‘a great escape’ are to be experienced on the site of what was once the largest prison in the world.

Spike Island, in Cork Harbour, will be the venue for a special series of events on the weekend of Saturday, September 30, and Sunday, October 1, to commemorate its role as an internment camp for up to 1,200 IRA prisoners who were held there during Ireland’s fight for freedom.