Bells of Shandon, St. Anne's Church

The Bells of Shandon refers to the famous bells housed in the tower of St. Anne’s Church in Cork, Ireland. This iconic church, built in 1722 and located in the Shandon district on the city’s north side, is one of Cork’s most prominent landmarks.

St. Anne’s Church and its bells are special in Cork’s cultural and historical landscape. The church’s bell tower houses eight bells weighing 6 tonnes.

You can climb the tower to see the bells and enjoy panoramic views of Cork City. Beyond the bells, St. Anne’s Church is known for its distinctive architectural features. The tower is topped with a weather vane in the form of a salmon, highlighting Cork’s historical association with the River Lee and its significance to the city’s economy and lifestyle. The church’s clock, known affectionately as “the four-faced liar” due to someone spotting a slightly different on each of its four faces, adds to the charm and whimsy of the building.

For anyone visiting Cork, a trip to St. Anne’s Church to see the Bells of Shandon is a must. It offers a chance to engage with Cork’s rich historical heritage and stunning city views from the tower.