Fascinating Facts about the Cliffs of Moher
Fascinating Facts about the Cliffs of Moher
Uncover fascinating facts about the Cliffs of Moher, featuring quick-glance information and intriguing trivia. Enhance your understanding of this Irish wonder as you delve into the captivating details that make it truly remarkable.
Quick Facts about the Cliffs of Moher
- Address: Cliffs of Moher, Lislorkan North, Liscannor, County Clare, V95 KN9T
- Original Irish name: Aillte an Mhothair, literally meaning cliffs of the ruin
- Origin: Carboniferous period, 320 million years ago
- Length of the Cliffs of Moher: 14 kilometers (8.7 miles)
- Highest point of the Cliffs of Moher: 214 meters (702 feet)
- Renowned for its: Awe-inspiring beauty, dramatic coastal scenery with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, sheer verticality, coastal walk, seabird watching
- Special Events: International Guitar Festival, Fête de la Musique, Moher Frolics, Cliffs of Moher Climb, New Year’s Eve
- Number of Visitors per Year: 1.5 million
Fun Facts about the Cliffs of Moher
Explore the enchanting nuances of the Cliffs of Moher through these intriguing and delightful nuggets of information:
Isolated Outcrop Of Rock
Over 300 million years ago, the Cliffs of Moher were not part of the mainland. They were a separate island, a sea stack, formed by volcanic activity and erosion from the sea. Over time, sediment and rock were deposited on the surrounding land, connecting the island to form the coast we see today.
Underwater Forests
The base of the Cliffs of Moher conceals remnants of ancient forests that existed before the formation of the cliffs in the Carboniferous period, providing a fascinating archaeological insight into the area’s ecological history.
Time-Traveling Fossils
The Cliffs of Moher are a treasure trove of fossilized remains of ancient sea creatures, including crinoids and brachiopods. Crinoids are segmented filter feeders that resembled sea lilies, while brachiopods are marine invertebrates with two shells that look like clams. These fossils provide a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric marine life that thrived in the area millions of years ago.
Constantly Changing
The waves erode the Cliffs of Moher at an average rate of one meter every year, and storms can cause even more dramatic changes. Over time, the cliffs will continue to retreat inland.
Long-distance View
On clear days, the Aran Islands, which are located 30 kilometers (19 miles) offshore, and even the Twelve Bens mountain range in Connemara, 70 kilometers (43 miles) as the crow flies, can be visible from the Cliffs of Moher, creating an illusion of floating islands in the distance.
Seabird Colony
The Cliffs of Moher are home to the world’s largest seabird colony outside of Antarctica. Each year, over 30,000 pairs of puffin nest on the cliffs, along with thousands of other seabirds, including gannets, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes.
Endangered Butterflies
The Cliffs of Moher are home to the extremely rare and endangered Marsh Fritillary butterfly, adding a touch of ecological importance to the site.
Inspiring Landscape
The Cliffs of Moher have inspired countless artists and writers over the centuries. The cliffs have been featured in the works of authors such as J.M. Synge, William Butler Yeats, and Edna O’Brien, and they have also been painted by renowned artists such as J.M.W. Turner and Claude Monet. Perhaps the most famous example is the painting “The Cliffs of Moher” by Irish artist William Ashford, which is considered one of the most iconic images of Ireland.
Movie Backdrop
The Cliffs of Moher have been featured in several films and television shows. The cliffs have been seen in movies such as “Braveheart”, “The Princess Bride” and “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” and they have also been featured in television shows such as “Game of Thrones” and “The Tudors.”
Astronomy Connection
The Cliffs of Moher are designated as one of the best places for stargazing in Ireland. Their remote location and limited light pollution provide an optimal setting for observing the night sky.
Meeting point for Adrenaline Junkies
The Cliffs of Moher have become a hub for extreme sports like cliff climbing, cliff diving and base jumping. In 2017, a man tragically died after a parachute jump went wrong.
Cliffs of Moher Tickets & Tours
Explore our handpicked assortment of the Cliffs of Moher tickets and tours, thoughtfully selected to ensure an enriching and seamless experience.
From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway City Day Tour
10397 Reviews
From €78
GetYourGuide
Absolutely recommended experience. Fascinating nature that you can discover on your own. Enough time in each place to discover everything.
From Galway: Aran Islands Day Trip & Cliffs of Moher Cruise
1212 Reviews
From €70
GetYourGuide
An incredible experience, seasoned by the ability of the Driver/Guide Tommy, who was able to alternate Irish humor with a meticulous knowledge of the history of the places we visited. I highly recommend! Thank you!!!!!
