The Entrance to Hell: Rathcroghan, Co Roscommon

I never would have thought I’d find the entrance to hell in Roscommon… although historians and locals would probably prefer we called it by its other name, Oweynagat or Cave of the Cats. The hell reference likely came from Christian reformers; however, there are stories of ancient beasts ascending from the cave during Samhain and wreaking havoc above ground.

The entrance to cave is almost entirely hidden until you are right on it… in fact, the two track road is practically on top of it. Entering requires climbing in horizontally, feet-first (unless you want to tumble headlong into the mud and stones). Once you make the sharp left turn within this crawlspace of a entrance, you’ll need a flashlight to see anything… like catching a glimpse at the ancient corbel ceiling above you. The tiny passage opens up to an underground room with plenty of room to stand and walk around.

This subterranean experience combines with the many ancient sites in the area to provide an interesting look at ancient Ireland. Before you consider entering this cave, stop at the Cruachan Aí Heritage Centre and talk to them about it. The climb is challenging, could be dangerous, and impossible for those who are claustrophobic or afraid of the dark, of bugs, or of getting dirty.

• Official site: www.rathcroghan.ie
• Irish Fireside Podcast: Roscommon & the Entrance to Hell
• Megalithomania: Oweynagat *Great Photos
• Wikipedia: Rathcroghan

Written by Corey Taratuta

Corey hosts the Irish Fireside podcast and blog which has been named Best Blog of the Diaspora by the Irish Web Awards. His work has appeared on Google Field Trip, www.Lonely Planet.com, National Public Radio, www.WanderingEducators.com, www.BritMums.com, www.DiscoveryWorld.org, and elsewhere. His web community has been named finalist for the People’s Choice Podcast Awards and Irish Blog Awards, and his Irish travel program has ranked in the iTunes Top 50 Travel Podcasts. Corey’s Tips | Website