Dún Aengus (Irish: Dún Aonghasa) is the most famous of several prehistoric forts on the Aran Islands. A popular tourist attraction, Dún Aengus is an important archaeological site that also offers a spectacular view. It was built during the Bronze Age and dates from 1,000 B.C. or before. It has been called 'the most magnificent barbaric monument in Europe.' The name 'Dún Aengus' meaning 'Fort of Aengus' refers to the pre-Christian god of the same name described in Irish mythology.It is a semi circular stone fort over looking the Atlantic. It is deemed to be one of the best examples of its kind in Europe. A 14 acre site the fort consists of three terraces walls surrounding an inner encloseure containing a platform on the edge of the three hundred foot high cliff. The original shape was presumably oval or D-shaped but part of the cliff and fort have since collapsed into the sea. The particular location, suggests that its primary purpose was religious and ceremonial rather than military. It may have been used for seasonal rites by the druids, perhaps involving the bonfires that could be seen from the mainland of Ireland. The fort is about 900m from the Visitor Centre and is approached over rising ground. As much of the tour is outdoors, visitors are advised to wear weather protective clothing and shoes suitable for walking over uneven terrain.
