A reef off West Clare which is familiar to big wave surfers is linked to a local superstition that it was once the location of a village swallowed by the sea.
The legend of Cill Stuifín is the theme for a new TG4 documentary, where musician and folklorist Aindrias de Staic follows in his late father, folklorist Eddie Stack’s, footsteps to uncover the truth behind the legend.
“As haunting stories collide with scientific discoveries, geologists reveal evidence of a cataclysmic event, while big wave surfers confront the powerful reef that guards its secrets,” TG4 says.
The film features insights from geologist Martina McCarthy, folklorist Dr Ailbhe Nic Giolla Chomhaill, senior weather buoy technician Donal Kennedy, INFOMAR marine mapping specialist Felim O'Toole, and marine biologist Jack O'Donovan Trá.
The reef itself has previously featured in Afloat coverage of INFOMAR's high-resolution mapping of the Clare coastline, including Liscannor Bay and Cill Stuifín Reef.
Big wave surfers Ollie O'Flaherty and Callum Curtin bring the legendary reef to life, while artist Marie Connole contributes original artwork inspired by the folklore of Cill Stuifín.
“Living overlooking Liscannor Bay, I have spent years looking out at Cill Stuifín and wondering what lies beneath the sea,” director Kev L Smith says.
“This film grew from that curiosity. It is a journey of adventure and exploration, bringing together folklore, marine science, big wave surfing, and the people who know this coastline best to uncover the mysteries of this remarkable place.”
The documentary includes an original score by Moisés Mas García, alongside traditional music from Tara Howley, Aindrias de Staic and the late Micho Russell.
Cill Stuifín will be broadcast on TG4 on Tuesday, October 13th at 9.30pm.
