Gougane Barra
Co. Cork
The name Gougane Barra comes from Saint Finbarr, who is said to have built a monastery on an island in the lake nearby during the 6th century. Guagán Barra = Barra's retreat enclosed by mountains. The present ruins date from around 1700 when a priest called Denis O'Mahony retreated to the island. During the times of the Penal Laws, Gougane Barra's remoteness meant that it became a popular place for the celebration of the Roman Catholic Mass.
Afforestation of the area around the settlement began in 1938 and Gougane Barra is now home to a 1.42 square kilometre Forest Park which is home to a number of mammal and bird species.
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