Portbraddon Cave, Ancient sea cave in County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Portbraddon Cave is a limestone cave along the northern coast of County Antrim, situated roughly 5 meters above the present-day high water mark. It contains multiple chambers and passages that lead through the rock formation, creating different sections within the cave.
The cave was excavated in the 1930s by Andrew McLean May and revealed remains dating to the Mesolithic period. Archaeologists found bones, stone tools, and metal objects that show the site was inhabited thousands of years ago.
This place connects to early human settlement patterns in the region and draws visitors interested in coastal landscapes and ancient occupation. The cave itself reveals through its position how people adapted to natural features of the shoreline.
The cave is best reached by following the Ulster Way hiking trail from Portbraddon village, requiring sturdy footwear. The rocky and uneven ground around the cave demands careful footing and proper preparation before visiting.
The cave preserves ancient fireplaces and animal bones buried deep beneath the modern floor level, showing prolonged human occupation. These layers reveal how people lived here over extended periods and carried out their daily activities.
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