The Legend of the Abhartach Irish folklore is steeped in tales of the supernatural, but few are as chilling as the legend of the Abhartach. An unjust chieftain turned bloodthirsty being; the Abhartach has intrigued and terrified generations. But was this sinister figure merely a creation of ancient imaginations, or could he have inspired modern … Read more
How a Mysterious Serpent Allegedly Shaped the Shannon—and Captured Irish Imagination The Oilliphéist Ireland brims with legends of fantastical creatures lurking in its mists and waterways. While tales of the Dobhar-chú or the merrows capture our imaginations, one fearsome beast looms large in Irish folklore: the Oilliphéist. A serpent—or dragon-like creature—said to have carved the … Read more
Ireland’s Legend of the Winter Hag Winter can be challenging—dark nights, biting cold, and nature seemingly asleep. But in Gaelic folklore, winter has a guardian: the Cailleach. Known as “The Winter Hag,” she’s an ancient figure who embodies the power of the cold season. This post will explore who Cailleach is, where her stories come … Read more
The Legend of Eithne and the Prophecy of the Fall of Balor Irish mythology contains vibrant tales about gods, heroes, and magic. One such story centres on Balor of the Evil Eye, a terrifying giant who rules over the Fomorians and his daughter, Eithne. Balor fears a prophecy that says his own grandson will kill … Read more
The Tuatha Dé Danann and Their First Days in Ireland Ireland’s history is full of legends about powerful beings and epic battles. One of the most captivating stories is the tale of the Tuatha Dé Danann. They came from distant, magical cities, bringing amazing treasures and high hopes. Their arrival in Ireland marked a significant … Read more
Bridget Cleary Ireland’s Last Witch Trial In the spring of 1895, in rural County Tipperary, Ireland, a tragic and unsettling story unfolded—one that would grip the country and be whispered about for years to come. Bridget Cleary, a spirited and independent young woman, died under horrifying circumstances at the hands of her husband, Michael Cleary. … Read more
The Knighting of Cú Chulainn, Ireland’s Greatest Warrior Cú Chulainn is one of the greatest heroes of Irish mythology. Before he earned his famous name, he was known as Sétanta, a gifted and fearless boy growing up in the royal court of Ulster. Unlike the knights we know from later European stories, young warriors in … Read more
The Story of the Second Battle of Moytura Ireland’s old stories from Irish Mythology contain magic, mystery, and mighty heroes. Before modern times, the land was said to be home to otherworldly beings, powerful gods, and fierce warriors. One of the most significant conflicts in these tales is known as the Second Battle of Moytura. … Read more
The Yule Log in Ireland. An Ancient Tradition of Celebration As the darkest days of the year settle in, the warm glow of the Yule Log stands as a symbol of hope, renewal, and connection to traditions that stretch back thousands of years. In Ireland, where ancient customs blend seamlessly with modern celebrations, the Yule … Read more
The Mystical Island of Hy-Brasil: Fact or Fiction? Imagine a magical island that appears out of nowhere, rising from the ocean every seven years before vanishing again into the mist. This is the story of Hy-Brasil, a legendary land off the west coast of Ireland, a fascinating story from Irish Folklore. For centuries, people have … Read more