History of Cliffs of Moher: Origin, and Legends
History of Cliffs of Moher: Origin, and Legends
The origins of the Cliffs of Moher date back to the Carboniferous period, a staggering 320 million years ago in the ancient geological history of the Earth. The cliff’s history as part of civilization begins in the 1st century, when a fort was built at Hags Had, giving the cliffs their name.
Discover with us the exciting origins and history of Cliffs of Moher with our clear timeline. Afterward, delve into the fascinating legends that will enhance your visit to one of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes.
The Origin of the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher trace their geological origin back approximately 320 million years to the Carboniferous period. Composed primarily of sedimentary rock, including shale and sandstone, these rocks originated from ancient seas and formed distinct layers over millions of years.
The landscape’s evolution was shaped by tectonic activity, involving movements and uplifts of Earth’s crust. The dramatic verticality of the cliffs is a result of ongoing erosion, driven by the relentless forces of the Atlantic Ocean, wind, and rain. This erosion exposed harder, more resistant rock layers, creating the iconic cliffs we see today.
Sea stacks and arches along the cliffs add to their picturesque and dynamic appearance, showcasing the ongoing natural processes that contribute to the Cliffs of Moher’s geological significance and breathtaking beauty.
History of the Cliffs of Moher: Chronological Timeline
For a practical overview, we present you the history of the Cliffs of Moher as a chronological timeline. Let’s now be time travelers on a journey to the 1st century B.C., in order to come back from there to the present, getting knowledge about important events that took place over the years.
1st Century BC
At Hags Head, an ancient Iron Age fort graces the landscape, imparting its name to the Cliffs. In the ancient Gaeilge language, “Mothar” translates to “ruined fort,” etching a linguistic connection with the historic remnants.
The stoic remnants of a tower from this ancient fort still proudly stand on the site, whispering tales of times long past.
8th-11th Century
The Vikings, who are known for their seafaring prowess, often use the sheltered coves and inlets near the Cliffs of Moher as a place to escape the harsh weather conditions of the Atlantic Ocean.
They also use the cliffs as a lookout point, scanning the sea for prey or enemies.
1588
In the tumultuous aftermath of the Spanish Armada’s defeat by Elizabethan forces, storm-driven ships seek refuge around the north and west of Ireland.
Numerous vessels meet their demise along the coastline, a scene witnessed by Boetius Clancy, High Sheriff of Clare, from his vantage point atop the Cliffs of Moher.
Tasked by the Lord Deputy, Clancy receives explicit orders to “apprehend and execute all Spaniards found there of what quality so ever.”
The coastal areas harbor grim tales of execution and burial sites for the ill-fated Armada sailors.
1782
Cornelius O’Brien is born in Birchfield, Liscannor, Co. Clare. The later benevolent local landlord and Member of Parliament is the first to officially recognize the cliffs as a tourist destination and erects “an ornamental building”.
1808
During the Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815), the British Army constructs a lookout post, a signalling tower, at Hag’s Head along the Cliffs of Moher.
The pre-existing promontory fort, referred to as Mothar or Moher, and responsible for the Cliffs’ nomenclature, is dismantled to supply materials for the newly established signalling tower.
1835
The construction of the observation tower is finalized. This structure eventually gaines recognition as O’Brien’s Tower.
1836
A bridge now spans the Inagh river, connecting Lahinch and Liscannor. This structure facilitates convenient passage for Victorian visitors heading to the Cliffs of Moher.
Additionally, it provides local farmers with easier access to collect sand and seaweed in the present-day prefamine era.
1845
Cornelius constructs St. Brigid’s National School with the purpose of offering education to the children of his tenants. Additionally, he raises a small Gothic building over the nearby Reliever’s Well.
1854
An article in the Clare Journal on October 5, penned by “an English visitor,” commends Cornelius O’Brien for his contributions to the Cliffs of Moher.
The praise encompasses various aspects, including the tower, paths, stables, the round table, and the thoughtful provision of a piper to entertain visitors.
1857
Cornelius O’Brien dies on May, 30th.
1910
Tourism plays a significant role in the current local economy.
Quaker Mary Scott, in her 19th-century account “Two Months in Kilkee,” depicts the experience of climbing “Hag’s Jaw” near the Cliffs of Moher.
During the ascent, she observes local girls from nearby cabins following the travelers, carrying dishes of hot potatoes, along with butter or milk.
1950s
After spending some time in the United States, Denis (Dinny) McMahon returns to his hometown of Ballysteen, located near the Cliffs of Moher.
In the late 1950s, he identifies an opportunity in the growing tourism industry at the Cliffs of Moher.
McMahon says: “I started off talking to people. I wore a guide badge to draw their attention. We have a lot of wildlife there, and I’m a fairly good ornithologist. I am good on rock formations and very good on history, and God only knows all the stories I have.”
Dinny also entertains tourists by playing the tin whistle, contributing to the longstanding musical traditions of the area. He becomes a beloved and integral part of the Cliffs’ attraction.
1960s
German industrialist Eberhard Kemper extends an offer to the Considine family, proposing the purchase of 65 acres of land at Lislorkan North. This parcel includes a half-mile frontage of the Cliffs of Moher and O’Brien’s Tower (currently in ruins).
Acting on a tip-off, Clare County Council intervenes, entering negotiations with the Considine family and finalizing the acquisition of 2 acres & 25 perches for a sum of £1,060. This specific area encompasses the site of O’Brien’s Tower and the land along the cliff edge.
This transaction facilitates the development of the Cliffs of Moher as an amenity area, catering to the well-being of the general public.
1974
The restoration of O’Brien’s Tower, which had previously fallen into a state of ruin, is completed, and it is reopened as a visitor center and craft shop. Joe Vaughan, a local resident, serves as the curator.
Tourists from both nearby and distant locations once again relish the panoramic view, reminiscent of the one first enjoyed by Cornelius O’Brien’s guests well over a century ago.
1978
Shannonside Tourism, the regional tourist board, constructs a stone building on the location of Cornelius O’Brien’s old stables. This new facility houses a gift shop, tea rooms, and toilets.
By the year 1978, the Cliffs of Moher attract 100,000 visitors annually.
Over the following decade, this figure grows to 250,000, and the visitor volumes continue to surge throughout the 1990s.
1992
The Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) organizes a national architectural competition, facilitated by Clare County Council, to seek a design for a new visitor center at the Cliffs of Moher.
In 1992, Reddy O’Riordan Staehli Architects (RORSA), a Cork-based firm, wins the competition with an innovative design concept. This design involves placing the visitor center beneath the hillside to minimize any visual impact on visitors’ views of the Cliffs.
2007
The recently constructed Visitor Centre is now open and continues to stand, welcoming and educating people to this day.
2008
O’Brien’s Tower undergoes another round of renovation.
2011
In 2011, the Burren and Cliffs of Moher achieve UNESCO-recognized Global Geopark status.
The Geopark, in partnership with dedicated local tourism enterprises, is committed to establishing the region as a leading global destination for responsible tourism.
This ongoing effort reflects a collective commitment to preserving the area’s unique geological and cultural attributes while fostering sustainable development practices.
2019
O’Brien’s Tower is renovated. Lime plaster has been reapplied to the external walls to restore the original appearance when it was first built.
Present
Today, the Cliffs of Moher stand as a renowned natural wonder, attracting visitors from around the globe.
The site boasts a modern Visitor Centre and continues to captivate with its breathtaking views and geological significance.
Legends of Cliffs of Moher
How could there be no legends surrounding such a magical place as the Cliffs of Moher? And of course, it’s about witches and bold knights, mermaids and fishermen, God and gods, or golden keys and sunken cities…
Cliffs of Moher Tickets
Explore below our curated selection of Cliffs of Moher tickets and guided tours:
From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway City Day Tour
20.7K+ Reviews
€68
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
2.6K+ Reviews
€80
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!!!!!
