Cornwall situated on the southwest peninsula
of England is bordered to the north and west by the Atlantic Ocean
and to the south by the English Channel and includes the Isles of
Scilly.
The Cornish coastline is approx. 300 miles long, with its
rugged beauty, wild moorlands and beautiful landscapes that have
attracted and inspired many writers and artists to the county over
the centuries.
Whether you like walking, cycling, painting, sailing, surfing, watersports,
horse riding, sightseeing, history, nature, sunbathing or just relaxing
on one of the many beaches, there is something for everyone.
During the Middle Ages through to the early 19th century
tin and copper mining were the main source of the
economy. You can still see the remains of this industry in the landscape
and old Enginehouses dotted around the coastline.
By the mid 19th century
the extraction of china clay had taken over from tin and copper
mining, although the mining of tin was still in operation until
the 1990's.
Because you are never far from the sea in Cornwall, fishing has
always been of importance to the area especially pilchard fishing.
Agriculture has also played a great part in Cornwall's economy.
With the coming of the railway in the 20th century tourism has become
the main source of the Cornish economy.
The patron saint of Cornwall is St. Piran (also the patron saint
of tin miners). St. Piran's Day is celebrated on 5th March every
year. St. Piran's Flag is also the flag of Cornwall it has a black
background with a white cross on it.
Cornish Language - http://www.moderncornish.net/
The use of the language died out in the 18th century, attempts to
re-introduce it have resulted in several hundred people who can
speak the language. The Cornish word for Cornwall is Kernow.
Some of the rivers in Cornwall
Allen, Camel, Cober, Fal, Fowey, Gannel, Hayle, Helford, Mylor,
Par, Looe, Ottery, St. Austell, Tamar, Tiddy, Truro, Valency
Cornish Food:
Cornish Pasty
Cornish Clotted Cream
Cornish Fairings (ginger biscuits)
Cornish Fudge
Hewa Cake also known as Heavy Cake
Hog's Pudding (sausage)
Saffron Bun
Stargazy Pie (Pilchard pie)
Yarg (cheese)
Cornish Festivals
Obby Oss held on 1st May every year at Padstow
Furry Dance (Flora Day) on or around the 8th May every year at Helston
Golowan held in June every year – http://golowan.org
Montol Festival held in Penzance, the main event is held on 21 Dec
2010 - www.montol.co.uk
Cornish Pilot Gigs
In the 19th century on the sighting of large ships attempting to make
their way to one of the major ports, crews would race out
in an effort to be the first gig to get their pilot on board
to enable safe passage for the ship.
Gigs were also recognised as shore-based lifeboats going out to
vessels in distress, with recorded rescues going back to the late
17th century. Now the sport of gig boat racing has grown in popularity
with over 100 clubs, the majority of which are in Cornwall and the
Isles of Scilly,
World Pilot Gig Championships - http://www.worldgigs.co.uk/
The Isles of Scilly host this 3 day event each year in May, crews
from Cornwall and around the world compete for the title of World
Champions. Now something of a legend within the rowing community,
attracting more crews and supporters every year.
Cornwall Tourist Information Office - http://www.visitcornwall.com/
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