Giant's Causeway: Nature, myths and scientific mysteries
Archived material. Last modified on the old website: 2023-12-07. Prices, dates and conditions have been preserved from the original and may be outdated.
The Giant's Causeway, or the Giant's Path, is a wonderful natural phenomenon located on the coast of Northern Ireland, near the town of Bushmills. This fascinating place consists of 40 thousand natural stone columns. Most are hexagonal, but four-, five-, seven- and eight-sided forms also occur. The tallest column reaches a height of around 12 metres.
The legend of Finn and the Giant: In the world of Celtic myths, a legendary bridge arose, built by the hero Finn Mac Cumhaill to defeat the Scottish giant Goll. Construction took seven days, but victory came through the ingenuity of his wife, who saved Finn from an unexpected encounter with the giant. She wrapped Finn up like a baby and hospitably offered the giant cakes filled with iron frying pans. When the giant saw Finn in the guise of a baby deftly eating cakes without the special filling, he fled in terror at the prospect of meeting the baby's father (who was Finn himself), destroying part of the bridge. Today, only the beginning of the bridge remains as a witness to this mythical event.
The scientific explanation of its origin: Scientists believe this unique formation occurred 50-60 million years ago, when hot basalt lava broke through to the surface during a volcanic eruption, directly into the bed of an existing river. Rapid cooling of the lava on contact with water led to the formation of stone columns. More recently, however, curator Mike Simms proposed a different hypothesis for the formation of the Giant's Causeway, which could have taken place in just a few days through lava filling and subsidence. Whatever it may be, a geological formation of 40 thousand basalt columns or the handiwork of Finn McCool, the Giant's Causeway inspires all who see it with its myths and scientific theories.
The present day: Today, the Giant's Causeway attracts tourists with its incredible beauty and mystery. Every stone here has its own history, and the magical atmosphere enchants every visitor.
We invite you to discover this unique stone labyrinth, where nature intertwines with myths and every step immerses you in a world of ancient legends and the striking beauty of the Irish coast.
The Giant's Causeway has various routes and plans for tourists. Choosing a tour of the Giant's Causeway lets you discover the unique character of every corner of this fascinating natural landscape. Book the best offers in just a few steps on our website now.