Cork is a city rising.

And more and more people are discovering the charms, sites, and sounds of our lovely Leeside home.

Latest to spot the many treasures Cork has to offer is the US behemoth Travel Weekly, who have just named Nano Nagle Place and the Ardú Street Art project as ‘Things to Look forward to in Europe in 2022’.

The Cork attractions are in good company. The article, with a theme of new and restored cultural art projects, includes the restoration of the iconic French landmark Notre Dame and a new centre of dance in Helsinki, Finland.

Readers are encouraged to visit Cork to check out the city’s newest street art and the iconic Nano Nagle Place, now “a museum, heritage center, secluded gardens, a cafe and design and gift shops.”

Shane Clarke, CEO at Nano Nagle Place said they are “over the moon to be included in this prestigious list of European attractions”, following on from recently being awarded The Council of Europe Museum Prize for 2022.

“We are looking forward to welcoming even more visitors to our wonderful, city centre location in the historic heart of the city.” he added.

The Ardú Street Project (ardú is the Irish for rise), was created in October 2o20 in the midst of lockdown when seven of Ireland’s top street artists were invited to create works inspired by the 1920 Burning of Cork.

With the ambitious theme of nostalgia and celebration, the project was a rallying cry to the city; “a call to remember that we have been through terrible times before and we rose up”.

“To be mentioned as a European highlight is a massive testament to everything the team and artists have done in brightening up Cork City.” said Shane O’Driscoll, artist, designer, and co-organiser of Ardú Street Art.

“We have been very fortunate to be supported by local authorities and business alike, who also see the vision we have for the project.  To be listed on an American site as a European tourist attraction is beyond what we could hope for in spreading the word about what we do.”

The Ardú team pictured at Cork’s newest mural at St. Finbarr’s Road by Sligo-born artist Friz.

There are now 11 murals dotted across the city as part of the Ardú project.

Visitors and residents alike can take a self-guided audio walking tour of the installations.