Follow in the footsteps of Ireland’s patron St Patrick, exploring St Kevin’s 6th century monastic settlement at Glendalough, marvelling at the Book of Kells, following the trail of St Patrick through Armagh and Down, and going to the top of Skellig Michael and the Rock of Cashel.
FAST FACTS:
The Book of Kells: One of the most beautiful illustrated manuscripts of the Early Christian world, the Book of Kells consists of the four Gospels in Latin, richly decorated with traditional Christian iconography, as well as intricate figures of humans, animals and mythical beasts.
Glendalough, County Wicklow: Glendalough is the monastery founded by St Kevin in the 6th century that became one of the great centres of learning in early Christian Ireland. From its humble origins in the 6th century, Glendalough became a beacon of piety and learning.
Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary: The Rock’s association with Ireland's early Christian heritage stretches back to when it was also the Seat of the High Kings of Munster. It’s on this spot that St Patrick converted King Aengus to Christianity.
Skellig Michael: The jagged, pointed Skellig Michael (Sceilig Mhichíl) is of particular significant religious and historical relevance, offering a keyhole view into the lives of an isolated and storm-lashed community of monks who lived here between the 6th-13th centuries.
Clonmacnoise: The extensive remains of a cathedral, round tower, high crosses and no fewer than seven churches illustrates how Clonmacnoise was once a leading centre of religion and learning in Europe. Pope John Paul II paid a visit to Clonmacnoise in 1979, as its historical significance endures almost 1,500 years later.
St Patrick’s Trail: Follow in the footsteps of one of the world's most beloved saints, while taking in Ireland's rich Early Christian heritage. Soaring cathedrals, crumbling monastic ruins and magnificent landscapes line this trail, all united by one incredible story of a boy who grew from slave to saint.
Armagh city: Saint Patrick’s legacy is still strong in this Northern Ireland city. Patrick reputedly had a stone church built on a hill here back in 445AD. And at this very spot St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral now stands. Atop a hill on the other side of the valley is the twin-spired Roman Catholic Cathedral also dedicated to St Patrick.
Downpatrick: Situated on the site of an ancient Benedictine monastery, Down Cathedral is where the mortal remains of Patrick were buried after his death in 461AD. The exact site of St Patrick’s burial remains a mystery, but a carved Memorial Stone – made from local Mourne Mountain granite traditionally marks his grave.
- Discover Ireland, photo by Tavis Beck, EdenGate Travel, Faith travel Ireland.