Retire in Paradise

Penzance is a town right on the coast of Cornwall. It is one of the most westernmost towns in the country. The actual translation for the name Penzance means Holy Head so it is thought that the name of the city relates to the chapel that was placed at the headlands. Another reference to a holy head is found in the town symbol which depicts the head of John the Baptist.

One of the oldest sites discovered in town is from the Iron Age, the Lescudjack castle. The town was not overly prominent until sometime during the 17th century. It was mainly known for frequently being raided by Barbary Corsairs. Because of its location the town has been sacked by many different fleets and for many years after the Spanish Armada it was raided frequently but the Spanish fleets.

The population of Penzance increased after the town was able to charge for using the harbor and a market began. The pier and market house were built at the beginning of the 1500s. The town also went under a grand improvement scheme in the 1700s. The Royal geological Society of Cornwall was very important as the Prince regent was a patron of this regional society.

Some of the early important industries included fishing, agriculture and mining. There were many mining schools in the area including the Penzance Mining and Science School. The main mining product was tin and there was a large smelting house in town. The success of the mining industry led to an increase in commercial banking.

The town has a lot of history to explore as much of the core of the town is part of a conservation area. There are many regency and Georgian buildings in town and the harbors are considered to be very historic. The seafront has its own promenade as well as the Jubilee Bathing Pool. This bathing pool is from the Art deco and one of the oldest of its kind. This was from the brief time that Penzance was a popular seaside resort.

There are several fun festivals and celebrations each year as the Golowan festival is an excellent midsummer celebration. You can attend one of the many firework displays or bonfires. May Day is also known for its celebration and instead of Halloween, Allantide is celebrated.

Penance is famous because it features prominently in the Pirates of Penzance by Gilbert and Sullivan. The pirates came from Penzance. There are many theaters in town that provide venues for movies, cabaret, music and dance.