Murlough Bay facts for kids
Murlough Bay is a stunning bay located on the northern coast of Northern Ireland. You can find it nestled between Fair Head and Torr Head in County Antrim. This special place is famous for its amazing beauty and quiet, faraway feel. From here, you get fantastic close-up views of Rathlin Island. You can also look across the sea to the Mull of Kintyre, Islay, and Jura, along with other Scottish islands.
The rocks around Murlough Bay are typical for the Antrim area. You'll find basalt rock sitting on top of layers of sandstone and limestone. This region also has many old kilns. These kilns were once used to make lime, a material used in building and farming.
A Look at Murlough Bay's Past
Murlough Bay has a rich history. Its original Gaelic name was Muir-bolc. An old text from the 11th century, called the 'Preface to the Amra Coluim Cille', tells us something important. It says that Murlough Bay was where Saint Columba first landed in Ireland. This happened around 595 AD, after he sailed from Iona to attend a meeting called the Synod of Drumceat.
Remembering Sir Roger Casement
Murlough Bay was also a very special place for Roger Casement. He was an interesting person who had two important roles in his life. First, he was a diplomat for the British Government. In 1911, King George V even made him a knight. Later, he became a leader for Irish independence.
Even though he is now buried in Dublin, Roger Casement had a strong wish to be buried in Murlough Bay. While he was waiting in prison in 1916, he wrote a letter to his cousin. In it, he said: "Take my body back with you and let it lie in the old churchyard in Murlough Bay."
Roger Casement often visited Ballycastle, a nearby town. He stayed with his relatives there and truly loved the wild beauty of Murlough Bay. The stone base you see today is what remains of a cross. This cross was put up to remember Sir Roger Casement and his connection to this special place.
Each August, a small ceremony is held at Murlough Bay to honor Roger Casement. This event is organized by Republican Sinn Féin.
