Embarking on a journey through your Irish genealogy can be both an exciting and daunting task. While census records and parish registers often take center stage, one valuable but often overlooked resource is the Irish Tithe Applotment Books. These fascinating documents offer a wealth of information that can substantially enrich your family history. This guide aims to...
The Kings’ Cycle, also known as the Historical Cycle, is one of the four major cycles of Irish mythology. This cycle focuses on the semi-historical tales of the legendary High Kings of Ireland and their exploits, exploring the intersection between myth and history. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Kings’ Cycle, its main characters...
The Ulster Cycle, one of the four major cycles of Irish mythology, is a captivating collection of tales and legends centered around the heroic exploits of the ancient kingdom of Ulster. This cycle features some of the most iconic characters in Irish mythology, such as Cú Chulainn, Conchobar Mac Nessa, and the fearsome warriors of the Red Branch. The stories of the...
The Mythological Cycle, one of the four major cycles of Irish mythology, is a fascinating exploration into the origins of Ireland and its people. It traces the complex and intricate history of the various supernatural beings, gods, and heroes that shaped the island’s culture and folklore. At the heart of this cycle lies the story of the Tuatha Dé Danann, a race...
The Fenian Cycle, one of the four major cycles of Irish mythology, revolves around the tales of Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the Fianna, and their legendary exploits. Set in a time between the Ulster Cycle and the Historical Cycle, the Fenian Cycle focuses on the heroic deeds, adventures, and battles of the warrior bands led by Fionn Mac Cumhaill. This article will provide a...
Once upon a time in ancient Ireland, there lived a noble chieftain named Lir, who was a member of the mystical race known as the Tuatha Dé Danann. After the death of his beloved wife, he married Aoife, the sister of his king, hoping to bring joy back into his life. Lir had four children from his first wife: a daughter, Fionnuala, and three sons, Aodh, Fiachra, and...
St. Columba, also known as Colum Cille, which means ‘Dove of the Church’ in Irish, is a pivotal figure in the early spread of Christianity in Scotland. This Irish abbot and missionary evangelist’s life was filled with legendary tales, including a confrontation with a monster in Loch Ness and significant efforts to convert Scotland to Christianity...
Once upon a time in Ireland, there was a wise old druid named Finnegas. He lived by the River Boyne, which was believed to be the dwelling place of a mystical creature – the Salmon of Knowledge. This was no ordinary fish, for it had consumed the nuts from the nine hazel trees that surrounded the Well of Wisdom, and it was said that whoever ate the salmon would...
St. Kevin of Glendalough, known in Irish as Caoimhín, is one of the most enigmatic figures in Irish Christian history. Known for his hermit lifestyle, miraculous deeds, and a legendary encounter with a blackbird, St. Kevin’s life and legacy are deeply intertwined with the natural beauty of the Wicklow Mountains. This article explores the remarkable life of this...
St. Brendan the Navigator, also known as Brendan of Clonfert, is one of the most intriguing figures in the annals of Irish Christianity. Celebrated as a daring seafarer and explorer, he is best known for his legendary voyage in search of the “Promised Land of the Saints.” This article delves into the life of St. Brendan, the tales of his voyages, and the...