Kelly's Cave Explained

Kelly's Cave
Other Name:Uaimh Uí Cheallaigh
Location:Nymphsfield, Cong, County Mayo
Length:16m (52feet)
Discovery:prehistoric
Geology:Carboniferous Limestone
Entrance Count:1
Coords:53.5444°N -9.2792°W
Map:Ireland
Grid Ref Ireland:M 152 557

Kelly's Cave is a limestone solutional cave and National Monument in County Mayo, Ireland.

Location

Kelly's Cave lies in woodland 500m (1,600feet) northeast of Cong.

History

English antiquarian Wilfrid James Hemp suggested the cave may have had prehistoric use, comparing it to ancient caves in Sardinia.[1]

It has been suggested that the cave may have been extended and modified in the middle ages for use as a hermitage related to Cong Abbey.[2]

This cave is supposed to have taken its name from a fugitive named Kelly who took refuge there following the 1798 Rebellion.

Another local tradition claims that Kelly was a man who, along with his family, was forced to live there during the Penal era (17th–18th century). Kelly became a highwayman to survive.

Description

The cave is about 16m (52feet) long and consists of two rectangular chambers and a hole in the roof which acts as a skylight. Four steps lead down to an underground stream, and benches have been carved into the walls.[3] [4]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Geology. Mayolibrary.ie. 29 July 2018.
  2. Book: Dowd, Marion. The Archaeology of Caves in Ireland. 31 January 2015. Oxbow Books. 9781782978138. Google Books.
  3. Web site: Kelly's Cave. Lakedistrictheritage.ie. 29 July 2018.
  4. Book: Wilde, William R.. Lough Corrib, Its Shores and Islands: with Notices of Lough Mask. 1 January 1872. Lulu.com. 9781291406757. Google Books.