I was already pretty excited to see Giant’s Causeway having seen photos of it many times.
As we walked, my friend casually told me the legend of how Giant’s Causeway was formed.
It had never occurred to me the causeway was the result of a giant!
Not just any old Jack and the Beanstalk giant, but one that was disguised by his wife, as a baby…
WHY THE HELL IS THERE NOT A DISNEY/PIXAR MOVIE ABOUT GIANT’S CAUSEWAY (if you’re reading this Disney/Pixar, I want royalties)?!
Just imagine, an Irish giant, Finn McCool, is fighting a Scottish giant, Benandonner, who’s threatening Ireland. McCool, loses his cool and throws chucks of the Antrim coast across the sea.
A path is formed for McCool goes to sort out Benandonner. Except Benandonner is massive. Like a giant’s giant.
McCool sensibly retreats, but Benandonner isn’t scared an follows.
That’s when McCool’s wife disguises him as a baby. If McCool’s baby is huge, how big is his dad?!
Roll credits.
How the Giant’s Causeway was formed (the science version)
The less fun story of how the Giant’s Causeway was formed involves lava cooling to create these hexagonal columns 50 to 60 million years ago.
Okay still pretty fun.
Giant’s Causeway isn’t the only pretty thing to see nearby.
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Is Giant’s Causeway free?
We parked for free at Portballintrae Village Hall on Beach Road so you can walk along the coast and cliffs to Giant’s Causeway (and bypass paying for the visitor experience).
What is Giant’s Causeway?
The Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder and geological formation on the coast of Northern Ireland. It consists of around 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns, formed as a result of volcanic activity millions of years ago. The site is known for its stunning beauty and is a popular tourist attraction.
Is Giant’s Causeway man made?
No, the Giant’s Causeway is not man-made. It is a natural geological formation located on the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. The causeway is renowned for its unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity.
Is Giant’s Causeway worth it?
Yes, the Giant’s Causeway is considered worth visiting. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic landmarks. The unique geological formations, breathtaking coastal scenery, and the folklore surrounding the site make it a captivating destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Who discovered Giant’s Causeway?
The Giant’s Causeway has been known to local communities for centuries, and its existence has been documented in various historical accounts. However, it gained wider recognition in the 18th century when it became a subject of interest among scientists and naturalists.
Why is Giant’s Causeway hexagonal?
The hexagonal shape of the Giant’s Causeway columns is a result of the cooling and solidification process of lava that occurred during volcanic activity. As molten basaltic lava flowed into the sea, it cooled rapidly, causing fractures and cracks to form. The columns took on a hexagonal shape as they contracted during the cooling process.
Why is Giant’s Causeway a World Heritage Site?
The Giant’s Causeway was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. It received this recognition due to its outstanding geological significance, representing a unique example of the Earth’s natural processes. The site’s hexagonal basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity, make it an exceptional and globally significant geological feature.
Why is the Giant’s Causeway called that?
The name “Giant’s Causeway” is associated with a legend that involves the Irish giant Finn McCool. According to folklore, Finn McCool built the causeway as a path to reach his Scottish rival, Benandonner. The Scottish giant then crossed the causeway to challenge Finn. The legend adds a mythical and cultural dimension to the site’s natural wonders.
Is Giant’s Causeway dog friendly?
Yes, the Giant’s Causeway is dog-friendly. Visitors are allowed to bring dogs, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. It’s advisable to check for any specific guidelines or restrictions, as they may vary.
Giant’s Causeway facts
- The Giant’s Causeway is estimated to be around 50 to 60 million years old.
- It is composed of mainly hexagonal basalt columns, with some having four, five, seven, or eight sides.
- The causeway has inspired myths and legends, with the most famous being the story of Finn McCool.
- The site is managed by the National Trust and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
- The unique geological formations are a result of volcanic activity and subsequent erosion.
- The Giant’s Causeway has been featured in various works of art, literature, and popular culture.
- It was declared a National Nature Reserve in 1987.
- The site offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Antrim Coast.
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