Ireland Legends And Lore

The Irish has a rich cultural history, ranging from stories or faeries and leprechauns to the illustrious Saint Patrick who rid the famous Emerald Isle of snakes. From the religious to the ancient pagan, the legends and lore of Ireland are a fantastic way to learn more about the culture of this tiny island nation.

The shamrock is a symbol often associated with Ireland. It is said that Saint Patrick used this often found plant to explain the symbolism of the holy Christian trinitythe Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. The three leaves of the shamrock form one complete plant. This symbol was also thought to have mystic powers of healing and protection and often found carved into graves.

The color green is commonly associated with Ireland, including its famous nickname of the Emerald Isle. Green is thought to be the color of life and spring, so the people use it to display their national pride. Additionally, the wet weather of Ireland allows it to possess lush green plants, thus the Emerald Isle.

Perhaps the most famous legend that stems from Ireland is that of the leprechaun. These tiny enchanted people are often associated with rainbows and pots of gold, as they guard the treasures from people who are so lucky to find the end of the rainbow. Usually, leprechauns are troublemakers and rogues, who mean no harm but only perform pranks to delight children and adults alike. Next time you see a rainbow, try to catch the leprechaun!

The Blarney stone in the famous Blarney Castle has a legend attached to it. It is said to have bestowed the gift of eloquence to Lord of Blarney when the reagent of England's'sQueen Elizabeth I tried to influence him to English rule. The poor Lord did not know what to say to the ruler. A wise woman told him to kiss the Blarney stone and he succeeded in making his plea before the Queen.

The ancient Irish commemorated a holiday on 31'st of October(Hallow's eve) called Samhain. They marked it with a big feast and ritualistic bonfires. Because of their deep rooted faith in spirits, they dressed in different costumes to mislead them while returning home.

Finn McCool is the friendly giant of Ireland who is said to protect them against attack. It is believed he fought against an evil giant from Scotland by throwing a large clod of earth at the big Scot. This is how Lough Neagh, the largest body of water, was formed.

The most popular legend hailing from Ireland is that of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Born in the 5th Century, Saint Patrick worked with the Roman Catholic Church to convert pagans to Christianity. Upsetting the Droids, Saint Patrick was often on the run and escaping from various prisons and jails. The saint is credited with ridding Ireland of snakes, as he set a curse upon the serpents, causing them to flee into the sea and drown.