Summary
Visitors to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland are being asked not to insert coins into the rocks. The coins rust, causing damage and discoloration, and efforts are underway to remove them and prevent further harm.
Key Facts
- The Giant's Causeway is a famous site with around 40,000 basalt columns.
- Tourists have started placing coins in cracks of the rocks, similar to leaving padlocks on a bridge.
- The coins rust, discolor, and damage the basalt columns.
- The National Trust, which takes care of the site, is removing the coins to prevent more damage.
- Dr. Cliff Henry from the National Trust says coins cause physical damage and chemical reactions that harm the rocks.
- A stonemason is working to remove coins without harming the rocks, having removed about 10% so far.
- Signs are being placed, and tour guides are instructing visitors not to insert coins.
- Dr. Kirstin Lemon from the Geological Survey suggests removing coins to stop further damage.
