The name Gougane Barra is derived from St.Finbarr who built a monastery on the island in the area in the 16th century.
There is nothing remaining of the earlier building, but there is a square Court with cells from a later date. The charming oratory still remains and can be visited by the public. The lake, which is the source of Cork's river Lee, is set against magnificent mountain scenery. On the lake is a tiny island which can be reached by a Causeway.
This was the site of the Hermitage of St.Finbarr the patron saint and founder of Cork City. The Feast day of the saint is September 25th and each year on the Sunday following that date a Pilgrimage is held. The small church on the island was built at the end of the 19th. century near where the monastery originally was.
Today it’s very popular venue for wedding ceremonies as the Oratory has seating for 50 persons. The wedding receptions usually take place at a nearby hotel. Here, in what was designated Ireland's first National Park in 1964, are lots of beautiful locations around the lake for relaxing walks which take in the outstanding scenery. Certainly a place worth visiting.