Halloween is fast approaching and so it’s time to get into the spirit of things. Ireland is nation covered in history, myths and legends. This is the perfect time of year to remember these ancient stories. So grab a blanket, a cup of tea and imagine the sounds of a crackling fire as we dive into Ireland’s ancient myths and legends! Many believe that Halloween actually began in Ireland. Here it is called Oíche Shamhna. In Irish, ‘Oíche’ means ‘night’ and so Oíche Shamhna refers to Halloween night. Samhain (Sow-in) was a festival that marked the end of the harvest...
There are so many Irish Symbols out there ! But what do they really mean? Let’s explore the world of Irish Symbology together! The Harp: The harp is one of Ireland’s most iconic symbols! As far back as the 13th century, harpists enjoyed a high status in Irish society for providing people with joy and music. In the 17th century, during the period of the 'Kingdom of Ireland', the pillar of the harp began to be depicted as a bare-breasted woman. When Ireland became the independent Irish state in 1922, a late-medieval Gaelic harp (a cláirseach), the Trinity College Harp,...
It’s that time of the year again. The pumpkins are out along with the ghouls and goblins. Back home in Ireland, Mammy would be pulling out a hot barmbrack from the oven and I’d be scalding meself trying to eat it. I can almost feel the burnt mouth. There are so many Halloween activities going on with people getting ready for the festivities. It’s all very exciting. But I bet you didn’t know that Halloween actually began in Ireland? It was called Samhain. (Sow-in) ‘Oíche’ means ‘night’ in Irish and so Oíche Shamhna refers to Halloween night. Samhain (Sow-in) was...
