Check out our past quizzes here.…

Long before the Christians walked the Isle of Eire, there were those who celebrated the passing of the seasons: Winter, spring, summer, fall

While the Solstices were not as important to…

During my research phase for information, I've relied heavily on the writings of Michael O'Cleary, a Franciscan monk, who, with three other scholars, compiled what has collectively become known as the "Annals of The Four Masters." They were…

There are more than just Christmas lights illuminating the darkness as the sun rises on the Winter Solstice in Ireland. On December 21, a marvelous event occurs at Bru na Boinne. On a hill in the Boyne Valley of County Meath stands a complex of three monuments to the early…

Early Irish society was hierarchical and divided into numerous ranks.  A person’s rank was determined by his material wealth.  As a person’s fortunes changed, his rank in society could also change.  The class system was not rigid.  Every…

Ireland is known around the world as a place of fun, with pubs, singing and dancing, and of course, that's all true. But the Emerald Isle can also be a place for tranquility and quiet beauty. A visit to Brigit's Garden, just outside Galway City, will show that serenity and introspection are also part of the Irish experience.

Brigit's Garden is a perfect stop for those who…

This is a photo I took on my recent trip to Georgia and Armenia.  This stone cross was in a "cave monastery" in Geghard, Armenia.  The monastery buildings were actually carved out of the cliff face – as opposed to being built brick by brick.  

It was an amazing place…

Are YOU an expert?

I’ll save you the suspense. The answer is: YES!

The Wild Geese community is a diverse and enthusiastic group of…

The word "Halloween" owes its origin to the ancient Celtic harvest feast called Samhain, which occurred on the eve of the Celtic New Year, November 1. Several foods are traditionally eaten at this time, especially Colcannon and Barmbrack, a yeast fruit…

May I respectfully add my…

One Celtic custom that survived the conversion of Ireland to Christianity was divorce. Ancient Irish law, written in the seventh century, and known as Brehon Law, set forth several reasons that divorce could be obtained. In the…

As a schoolboy some 65 years ago, I was often asked for directions to the famous Turoe Stone (2 miles up the road) by French, German and British ‘tourists’. Intriguing winter fireside stories recalled remnants of a local ancient ‘city’ cum royal site enclosed within the same…

On Saturday, February 22, the Center for Irish music celebrated 10 years of handing down the tradition at its annual Éigse: A Gaela Event at the Celtic Junction in St. Paul, MN. This celebration is the yearly benefit for the center when the music instructors perform for the local…

The tale of Tristan and Isolde was one of the most influential romances in the medieval period. It predated and influenced the Arthurian romance of Lancelot and Guinevere.

Originally, the Tristan legend had nothing to do with King Arthur, but shortly…

John O'Donohue was a Clare-man with a painter's pen...his 6th anniversary is today, 4th January.  Air dheis De go raibh a h-anam dilis.

This priest-poet's words will ease your mind and raise your spirits.

Treat yourself and your friends to a wonderful gift…

Over most of Western Europe, particularly in those areas connected with the ancient Celts, December 21, the shortest day of the year fell during the Druidic festival of 'Yule'. Today it is better known as the festival of the ‘Winter Solstice’.

‘Thoul’, an ancient word for…

The Christmas season in Ireland is a happy combination of modern and ancient customs that combine to bring a unique meaning to this special time of year.  While Christmas shopping, decorated trees, and Santa Claus are evident everywhere, traditional customs that signify the true…

The Celtic nations consist of:

Wales (Brythonic)

Cornwall (Brythonic)

Brittany (Brythonic)



Ireland (Gaelic)

Scotland (Gaelic)

Isle of Man (Gaelic)

In the beginning, the Celts were divided into different subsects who lived on the European mainland. One group made their way to Ireland whilst another group settled in…

Sadness descended over Lurgan in Co. Armagh on Sunday, July 21, 2013 as the news filtered out that legendary Belfast Celtic inside forward Jackie Denver had passed away.



A stalwart of Elisha Scott's team in the late 1940's, Denver was an ever present in Scott's sides. He played in many of the most memorable games in the club's final days, including the 'Windsor…

An interesting piece here from the 'Cultural Heritage Ireland' site, delving back into the Annals of the Four Masters to find reference to the great fair held annually on 1st August in Co Meath.…