The tradition seems harmless but experts say it is doing serious damage to the rock(Image: Getty)The Giant’s Causeway, one of Ireland’s most visited tourist attractions, is becoming damaged due to an age-old tradition.
The site is located in Co Antrim, and showcases some of Ireland’s most unusual and dramatic landscape. The Causeway is famous for its thousands of interlocking basalt columns, which were formed by ancient volcanic eruptions cooling and cracking the landscape. Irish folklore says that the rock formations were created by giants in the mythological story of Fionn McCool.
For years, the geological marvel has attracted tourists who admire the rare and beautiful site, and often take part in an old tradition of leaving coins in the grooves of the basalt columns.
READ MORE: Donald Trump dementia fears as ‘brain misfires’ in worrying Oval Office announcement READ MORE: Melania Trump grins and bears as Donald describes painful humiliation in four words
The placing of coins is similar to leaving a lock on the love bridge in Paris, tossing a coin in the Trevi fountain, or kissing the Blarney Stone in Co Cork.
However, the National Trust, the governing body of protected sites, is now asking tourists to stop, saying that wedging coins in the cracks is causing the rocks to stain and crumble.
The unusual basalt columns at the Giant’s Causeway(Image: Exeter Airport)The National Trust, which manages the World Heritage site, said that the coins rust and expand to three times their original thickness, corroding and fracturing the rock.
Cliff Henry, a National Trust nature engagement officer said, “We are urging people to stop the practice and to leave no trace so this natural wonder remains special for future generations.”
According to the Guardian, Henry said: “The coins are rusting, and expanding to three times their original thickness, which puts huge pressure on the surrounding rock causing it to crumble.”
“Unsightly streaks of copper, nickel and iron oxides are also staining the stones where the coins are corroding. The coins here also have accelerated corrosion because they are often soaked in saltwater spray and the mixture of metals means they break down faster.”
The Guardian reported that the National Trust, in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust, has hired stone conservation specialists.
After testing the removal of coins at 10 locations, the aim is to now remove all remaining coins, a project that will cost an estimated $40,000.
Experts are also concerned about the effects of climate change on the iconic landmark. Researchers used AI to create images of what the Giant’s Causeway may look in the future due to environmental factors such as erosion, discoloration, and flooding.
For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here.