Béal na Bláth
The site in 1922 where Michael Collins was ambushed and killed; the roadside memorial is an important landmark of modern Irish history.
Béal na Bláth is a valley where country roads meet. On 22 August 1922, Michael Collins, Commander-in-Chief of the Irish Free State Army, was ambushed and killed here by anti-Treaty forces. The event profoundly shaped the course of the Irish Civil War. A Celtic cross memorial now stands by the road, and a commemoration ceremony is held each late August. The site is very small and suits history enthusiasts, who can make a detour to visit it about 25 km north of Clonakilty. Admission is free.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Timoleague Friary
- Clonakilty Town
- West Cork Model Railway Village
- Michael Collins House
- Inchydoney Beach
- Galley Head Lighthouse
- Drombeg Stone Circle
- Glandore