Megalithic tombs and monuments
Learn about the dolmens, wedge tombs, cairns and other ancient structures that still stand today, stone sentinels at the gates of our civilisation’s history, some older than Egypt’s pyramids.
Poulnabrone Dolmen
THE BURREN CENTRE EXHIBITION
Experience the Burren, its people, its heritage and its music
The Burren is a treasure store for lovers of wildflowers and wildlife, geology, ancient history, cave systems and magnificent vistas – as recognised in its status as a UNESCO Geopark. It features the largest expanse of limestone pavement in the world. The magic of its stones is reflected in its name – in Irish – An Bhoireann, “a stony place”.
From forts to farms
The Burren has many ancient stone forts for walkers to discover, as well as late mediaeval castles. And its distinctive stone walls are part of natural farming practices dating back over 1000 years that perfectly meet today’s ecological concerns.
Caherconnell Stone Fort
Churches and holy wells
Scattered throughout the Burren are many dozens of religious remains and pilgrimage sites, some tucked away and some easily accessible such as Corcomroe Abbey and Kilfenora’s own cathedral with its ancient Celtic Crosses.
Cocomroe Abbey Interior
Comprehensive and stimulating exhibits
Our exhibition brings all these treasures and history to life in a high-quality visitor experience. Also, we are currently also exhibiting the Kilfenora Timeline – describing the fascinating history of this ancient village from the sixth century AD, including how the Pope comes to be its bishop!
Burren Centre Exhibit
The Burren Centre
Audio Visual Display
This film by world renowned environmentalist and much admired film producer, Éamon de Buitléar, traces the story of the formation of the Burren 320 million years ago. Discover how the limestone pavement was formed, and why Alpine, Arctic and Mediterranean plants which require different climatic conditions grow side by side in such abundance on the fertile rock.
Burren Centre Exhibit