Dunmore Cave
Discover the hidden stories and ancient magic of this remarkable place.
About Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave is one of Ireland's most historically significant caves, described in the 9th century as one of the 'darkest places in Ireland.' This dramatic limestone cavern contains some of the finest calcite formations in the country, including the magnificent 'Market Cross' formation.
Beyond its geological wonders, the cave holds a dark secret – evidence of a Viking massacre that took place here over a thousand years ago.
Historical Background
Dunmore Cave enters recorded history with a tragic event: the Viking massacre of 928 AD. According to the Annals of the Four Masters, Vikings from Dublin attacked people sheltering in the cave, killing over 1,000 men, women, and children. Archaeological excavations in 1973 and 1999 confirmed this account, discovering human bones and Viking artifacts including silver and bronze coins, part of a Viking-era hoard. The cave has been a visitor attraction since Victorian times and is now managed as a national monument with guided tours.
Folklore & Legends
"Long before the Vikings arrived, Dunmore was known as a gateway to the Otherworld. The Irish name 'Dún Mór' means 'great fort,' and ancient peoples believed powerful spirits dwelt in its depths. After the massacre, the cave gained a haunted reputation – locals avoided it after dark, believing the spirits of the slain still lingered. Some say you can hear whispers in the deeper chambers, and that the temperature drops suddenly when you pass certain spots where bones were found."