West Cork has a rich history from the time of the War of Independence, with many sites around the county today marked for their significance. One of the most famous of these is Béal na Bláth. It was here in this quiet, peaceful part of Cork on the 22nd August 1922 that Michael Collins, one of the rebel county's most influential sons, was killed.

Today, a monument stands at the site of his death, with a small white pillar beside the steps marking the exact spot where he fell. It is a freestanding cut limestone Celtic High Cross style monument, with a red brick Flemish bond panelled platform and detailed steel railings. It was erected in 1924.

The monument is visited by many who take a moment to reflect on this fallen hero and commemorations are held on the nearest Sunday to the anniversary of his death every year.