Commissioned mural commemorating the centenary of the end of the war of Independence in the heart of the beautiful Clonakilty in West Cork. This amazing project was commissioned by Michael Collins House and Cork County Council
The Truce mural shows the history of the conflict, from its beginnings with the 1798 Rebellion and the Battle of the Big Cross at Shannonvale with local hero, Tadhg an Asna, through to the next generation of rebels, The Fenians, represented by another local, Jeremiah O’Donovan Rossa.
Both were big influences on Clonakilty’s key figure in the War of Independence, Michael Collins, who stands to the fore of the mural.
On July 11th 1921 a truce between the conflicting sides began and peace was restored. Locally, people who had been living under martial law, suddenly had the freedom to resume their lives and this led to much merriment in the town as people danced and played music and bonfires were lit on the surrounding hills.
The final third of the mural reflects this and there are lots of details and symbols in the background, telling the whole story of the local conflict and its journey to eventual peace in July 1921.
Visitors to Clonakilty can explore the mural as part of a wider historical tour, immersing themselves in the local community’s role in the struggle for Irish independence. The mural stands as both an artistic masterpiece and an educational tool, reminding locals and tourists alike of the sacrifices made during this crucial chapter in Ireland’s history.
