Dunmore Cave
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History Beneath Your Feet at Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave, a limestone solutional cave in Kilkenny, draws visitors with its rich history and remarkable geological formations.
Established as a show cave, it has been a site for archaeology and tourism since its discoveries. The cave holds historical significance for the Viking massacre in 928 AD, where approximately 1,000 people perished. Key features include the 7m-tall Market Cross, Europe's largest free-standing stalagmite, and various calcite formations.
Unforgettable Highlights
🪨 Unique Calcite Formations
🏰 Historical Viking Context
👣 Guided Tours Only
Visitors enjoy accessible guided tours, essential for engaging with both the cave's dramatic nature and its somber history, making it ideal for tourists, families, and history enthusiasts.
Interesting Facts about Natural History Museum Dunmore Cave
Viking Massacre Site
In 928 AD, Vikings slaughtered around 1,000 people near the cave, leading to significant archaeological findings.
Largest Stalagmite
The Market Cross stalagmite stands 7m tall, making it Europe's largest free-standing stalagmite.
Archaeological Discoveries
Excavations in 1973 revealed skeletons of at least 44 people, mostly women and children, alongside 10th-century coins.
Location
Stay Near Dunmore Cave Best Hotels
Address
View mapMohill (Castlecomer Rd)
Opening Hours
Friday:
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Monday:
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Saturday:
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Sunday:
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Contact Information
Price
Paid. Guided tours are required for entry.
Average Visit Duration
Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) are recommended for fewer crowds.