Caves of Kesh

Although not properly surveyed by experts until 1901, the Caves of Kesh (also known as the Keshcorran Caves) have been well-known among locals for centuries as one of the most picturesque caves of Ireland. As such, they have associated the caves with numerous myths. Cormac mac Airt, one of the High Kings of Ireland, was said to have been born in these caves and raised by wolves, similar to Romulus and Remus in the Roman tradition. Many other tales depict the caves as a gateway to part of the divine Celtic Otherworld, or as a magical portal to a similar cave in Rathcrogan, County Roscommon.

However, what has really occurred in the Caves of Kesh might be as fascinating as the legends, at least from a more scientific point of view. During the initial survey in 1901, evidence of the arctic lemming and reindeer was discovered, confirming that these species lived in Ireland until relatively recently. Human remains dating as far back as the Neolithic have also been excavated. Lughnasa, a festival commemorating the beginning of the harvest season, was once celebrated in the cave. As recently as the 20th century, locals congregated here for Garland Sunday in July.