Overview
Cill na Martra, also known by its Anglicised name Kilnamartyra, sits in the heart of West Muskerry, County Cork. The village lies roughly midway between the tourist hubs of Killarney and Macroom, making it an ideal quiet stop for travellers exploring the scenic routes of South‑west Ireland. Accessible via the L3402 local road, which links to the N22 national route just three kilometres away, Cill na Martra feels both secluded and conveniently reachable.
The settlement is part of the Irish‑speaking Gaeltacht, so visitors will hear the lilting sounds of Irish on the streets and in the local school, Scoil Lachtain Naofa, a gaelscoil named after the village’s patron saint. Despite its modest size, the village offers a blend of historic intrigue, contemporary craft, and community‑driven recreation.
History
The origins of Cill na Martra reach back to the early medieval period. According to tradition, Saint Lachtain founded a monastery here in the 8th century, giving the place its name – Cill meaning “church” and na Martra meaning “of the martyr or relic”. The saint’s legacy lives on through the famed Shrine of Saint Lachtain’s Arm, a reliquary that once housed fragments of his bones. Although the shrine now resides in the National Museum of Ireland, its connection to Cill na Martra underscores the village’s deep ecclesiastical roots.
The parish church, St Lachtain’s, remains a focal point of village life. Regular masses are held throughout the week, providing visitors an opportunity to experience local worship and the historic interior of the stone building. The church’s website lists daily mass times, typically including a 9:00 am service on weekdays and a 10:30 am Sunday Mass.
Historical records also place the surrounding townlands within the barony of Muskerry West, linking the area to the broader tapestry of Gaelic lordship and later Anglo‑Norman administration. Over the centuries, the village retained its rural character while adapting to new economic currents.
Prince August Toy Soldier Factory Visitor Centre
One of the most distinctive attractions in Cill na Martra is the Prince August Toy Soldier factory. Established in 1976 by Swedish couple Lars and Gunilla Edman, the workshop produces an impressive range of military and fantasy figurines, as well as DIY kits. The factory once employed close to 40 locals, making it a cornerstone of the village’s modern industry.
The visitor centre, located at Kilnamartyra, P12 FN79, offers guided tours where the manufacturing process is demonstrated. A hands‑on painting workshop – including a popular “GAA Footballer” option – lets families customise their own figures. The shop sells finished soldiers and kits, perfect as unique souvenirs.
Opening hours (as of 2024):
- Monday‑Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Closed on Sundays, St Patrick’s Day and a short period over Christmas/New Year (dates to be confirmed).
Contact: +353 (0)26 40222 | info@toysoldierfactory.ie
Visitor tip: Free parking is available beside the factory and the two village pubs. The site is wheelchair‑accessible, and the workshop runs family‑friendly sessions throughout the week – book in advance via the website.
Gaelic Heritage and Community Life
A stroll through the village reveals the everyday rhythm of a Gaeltacht community. The local national school, Scoil Lachtain Naofa, showcases bilingual education in action, while the village’s two traditional pubs provide a warm setting for a pint of Irish stout and a chance to hear local stories.
The Cill na Martra GAA pitch is a hub for sport enthusiasts. The club’s recent successes have put the village on the county map:
- 2018 – Won the Cork Intermediate A Football Championship, securing the club’s first county title.
- 2023 – Captured the Cork Premier Intermediate Football Championship and later the Munster Intermediate Club title.
A notable player is Tadhg Corkery, a defender who has represented Cork at senior inter‑county level and was instrumental in the 2018 and 2023 championship victories.
War of Independence Heritage
Just outside the village, an information point marks the site of the Cúl na Cathrach ambush (25 February 1921), one of the three major actions that helped force the 1921 truce. A modest monument and interpretive board explain the event, making it an interesting stop for history enthusiasts.
Practical Information
Getting there – The village is most easily reached by car. From the N22, turn onto the L3402 and travel a kilometre to the village centre. Signage is clear, and the short drive offers pleasant countryside views. Public transport is limited; the nearest bus stop is in Macroom (approximately 6 km away).
Parking – Free parking is available near the two pubs and the Prince August visitor centre. There is no paid car park.
Accessibility – The Toy Soldier Factory visitor centre is wheelchair‑accessible. The village streets are narrow but generally level.
Nearby attractions – Consider a short drive to the Gaeltacht village of Ballyvourney, known for its traditional music sessions and the historic Ballyvourney Abbey.
Language – While English is widely spoken, Irish is the everyday language of the community. Road signs, shop names and school notices are all in Irish, offering an authentic cultural experience.
For those interested in deeper historical context, the Wikipedia entry for Kilnamartyra provides an overview of the village’s evolution and notable figures: Kilnamartyra – Wikipedia.