Erosion opens a window on Ballybunion's early history
Danny Houlihan against the backdrop of Ballybunion's landmark castle and (inset) one of the underground tunnels discovered near the castle. Credit: Photo by John Reidy
A COMPLEX network of underground tunnels is being explored in Ballybunion after erosion in the last year opened up a stunning window on our early Christian past.
A subterranean system of tunnels was opened up on the cliffs under the Castle Green by the severe freeze-up of the last two years. While locals had noticed the holes in recent times, it is only coming to light this week that Ballybunion is on the brink of an exciting historical discovery.
Local historian Danny Houlihan was the first to explore the tunnels — with the aid of a camera mounted on a remotecontrolled car — recently. But with the erosion he was this week able to gain access himself.
What he found was stunning. "It appears to be the interior of a welldesigned early Christian site, a souterrain-type passage that is throwing new light on the ancient past of Ballybunion," he said.
Mr Houlihan has brought the matter to the attention of Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Jimmy Deenihan and a full archaeological survey is to be conducted of the site in the coming months.
The implications for heritage tourism in Ballybunion are massive, Mr Houlihan said.
"While it was known locally there were caves... and we presumed they were natural. Now, through the intricate stonework we can see they are clearly man-made. This will become a vital addition to the National Monuments of Ireland and will bring muchneeded tourists to Ballybunion and north Kerry. Ultimately, I would love to see it designated as a World Heritage Site for future generations to enjoy," Mr Houlihan said.
- DÓNAL NOLAN dnolan@kerryman.ie
