The Giant’s Causeway is a unique and spectacular geological formation.
The rocky structure is nestled beneath the sea cliffs of the north Antrim coast.
- This bizarre structure consists of around 40,000 polygonal rock columns protruding from the sea
- The tops of the columns form stepping-stones that lead outwards from the cliffs and eventually disappear under the sea
- Northern Ireland’s number one tourist attraction, the Giant’s Causeway was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986
How The Giant’s Causeway Was Formed
Geological studies suggest that the rock formation was caused by volcanic activity around 50–60 million years ago.
The Giant’s Causeway in Irish Mythology
- On seeing this other-worldly landscape, you understand why it has long featured in Irish myth and folklore
- An ancient legend, passed on since pre-Christian timess via the oral tradition of storytelling, tells that the rocks are the work of the giant Finn McCool.
- One version of the story goes that McCool built a highway to reach his sweetheart in the Scotland island of Staffa
- Another version of the story has it that McCool built the road to challenge a rival Scottish giant known as Benandone
Official Site
Giant’s Causeway Visitor’s Centre
