Cornwall is a ceremonial county and unitary authority area in the southwest of England. It is the westernmost part of the South West England region and is bordered to the north and west by the Celtic Sea, to the south by the English Channel, and to the east by the county of Devon, across the River Tamar.
Cornwall covers an area of 3,563 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 568,000 as of 2021. The county's landscape is characterized by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and a temperate climate influenced by the Gulf Stream. The region's highest point is Brown Willy on Bodmin Moor, which stands at 420 meters.
Historically, Cornwall was part of the Dumnonia kingdom in the post-Roman period. The area was influenced by Celtic culture, and Cornish, a language closely related to Welsh and Breton, was spoken widely until the 18th century. Cornwall retained its own legal system and was considered a Stannary Law jurisdiction until the 19th century, reflecting its historical significance in tin mining.
Key historical events include:
The culture of Cornwall is distinct, with its own language, customs, and festivals like the Gorseth and Obby Oss celebrations. The St Piran's Day on March 5th commemorates the patron saint of tin miners. Cornish pasties, a type of baked pastry filled with beef and vegetables, are a recognized symbol of Cornish cuisine.
Historically dominated by tin and copper mining, Cornwall's economy has shifted towards tourism, agriculture, and services. The region is known for its tourism, drawing visitors to its beaches, historic sites like Tintagel Castle (linked with King Arthur), and natural beauty spots like the Eden Project.
Cornwall Council is the unitary authority for most of the county, with some areas like the Isles of Scilly having their own separate councils. There has been a movement for greater autonomy or even independence, known as Cornish Nationalism, reflecting a strong sense of Cornish identity.