Blackrock Castle, formerly Mahon Castle, is a 16th-century castle located about 2 km from the heart of Cork city, Republic of Ireland on the banks of the River Lee. The "Cosmos at the Castle" project is a centre for scientific research, outreach and communication. The project is a joint venture between Cork City Council, Cork Institute of Technology and a private benefactor. A unique feature of the facility is the manner in which children and adults are encouraged to interact with science.