Portbraddon Cave
In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Portbraddon Cave. Throughout history, Portbraddon Cave has played a significant role in various areas, from science to popular culture. Its impact has been so profound that it continues to generate interest and debate today. We will explore its origin, evolution and relevance in contemporary society, with the aim of shedding light on its importance and meaning. Through detailed and rigorous analysis, we hope to provide a comprehensive and enriching insight into Portbraddon Cave, allowing our readers to expand their knowledge and understanding of this fascinating topic.
  location in Northern Ireland  Portbraddon Cave (the United Kingdom) | |
| Location | Portbraddon, County Antrim |
|---|---|
| Region | Northern Ireland |
| Coordinates | 55°14′54″N 6°28′32″W / 55.24833°N 6.47556°W |
| Type | sea cave |
| History | |
| Periods | Mesolithic |
| Site notes | |
| Excavation dates | 1930s |
| Archaeologists | Andrew McLean May |
Portbraddon Cave (also spelled Portbradden, Portbraddan) is a relict sea cave located near Portbraddon, County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland. Its location 5 m (16 ft) above the present-day high water mark makes it important archaeologically, as it would have been inhabited as far back as the Mesolithic.
In the 1930s the cave was the subject of an archaeological dig by Andrew McLean May, who made a number of notable finds. During the course of the excavations, which went as deep as 2 m (7 ft) below the modern floor level, May encountered: iron objects, including the barrel of a muzzle-loading pistol; pottery and flint tools, some of which showed Mesolithic characteristics; fireplaces and animal bones and ultimately the original water-worn floor of the cave. Most notably May also discovered partial remains of three human females. They were examined by Professor Thomas Walmsley at Queen's University Belfast, who noted that "most of the bones have primitive features which are not likely found together in post-medieval time; and there are some characteristics which suggest an epi-palaeolithic inheritance."
The whereabouts of the human bones have since become unknown, and they have not been subjected to modern radiocarbon dating techniques.
See also
References
- ^ a b c McInroy, Andy. "Chapter 7: The Caves of Prehistoric Man, Whitepark Bay". Great Sea Caves of Antrim. Retrieved 7 November 2011.
- ^ McInroy, Andy. "Chapter 7: The Caves of Prehistoric Man, Whitepark Bay". Great Sea Caves of Antrim. Retrieved 7 November 2011.
Originally published: May, Andrew McLean (1943). "Portbraddan Cave, County Antrim". Ulster Journal of Archaeology. 3. VI: 39–61.
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