The club was more of a satire meant to mock religion and generally shock the outside world.
A Rake’s ProgressTavern Scene by William Hogarth, circa 1730s.
The members met at Medmenham Abbey, a 12th century abbey that Dashwood acquired for the purpose.
Francis Dashwood was well known for his pranks.
The Hellfire Club soon became infamous for orgies of debauchery and drunkenness.
Members dressed themselves as friars and addressed each other as Brothers.
Prostitutes were dressed as nuns and were obliged to wear masks.
The club later met at a new place, a few miles north of Medmenham Abbey.
The Hellfire Club existed for about two decades, after which a series of political mishaps undid the club.
By the mid-19th century, the Hellfire Caves were already a tourist attraction.
The caves unusual design and debaucherous history brought visitors from all around Britain.
The entrance to the caves looks like a ruined church.
Today, they are filled with exhibits and mannequins recreating scenes from the parties.
Entrance to the Hellfire Caves.
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