(Northern) Ireland, Day 9: County Antrim

Today was what one might call a busy day. First we stopped off at the Giant's Causeway, an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, formed during the Tertiary period 62-65 million years ago during a period of igneous activity. The hexagonal columns occur in the middle basalt layer. The pattern seen formed as a result of rock crystallization under conditions of slow cooling. The pillars are ubiquitous, in some cases even in some of the more highly elevated hills.

From Ireland (2015)

Ed was adventurous and clambered all over the place.

From Ireland (2015)

One of the rather nice things was that even if one were not inclined to climb the pillars, there were some lower lying paths one could explore, as I did.

From Ireland (2015)

We backtracked by visiting Dunluce Castle, which was fortunately open this time; we were able to explore the remnants of the village and most of the castle (at least, the parts that haven't already fallen into the ocean).

From Ireland (2015)

Ed was interested in walking across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (a bridge suspended almost 100 feet above sea level; it was erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago); however, once we stopped at the site, we realized it required more of a walk to get there than we had imagined, so we proceeded on our way, driving south on the Causeway Coast Route and heading towards Belfast.

On our way, though, we saw a small sign alerting us to the existence of Bonamargy Friary, a Third Order Franciscan Friary founded circa 1500.  The name "Bonamargy" comes from the Irish Bun na Mairge, which means "the foot of the Margy," the river around which the friary was built circa 1500. Tradition has it that Bonamargy was founded by the chef of the powerful family who controlled the local area at the time.

One of the most famous inhabitants in the 17th Century was Julia McQuillan, known locally as the "black nun." "Dark Julia" was a recluse and prophetess, most of her predictions telling of coming of some startling and calamitous event. She is said to have died on the stairs in the east range and apparently haunts them still. As a sign of humility, she requested to be buried at the west doorway, and her grave is believed to be marked by an unusual stone cross which you can see here.

From Ireland (2015)