If I were to ask anyone to name one of the Irish gods, almost certainly Morrigan would come at the top of their list. She’s probably one of the most iconic, symbolic, and empowering, of the ancient pantheon. And rightly so. Her image – both terrifying and awe-inspiring – has captivated generations, symbolizing the inexorable…
Time governs much of our lives, shaping schedules, rituals, and even the stories we tell. Understanding the passage of time is an inescapable fact of life whether in our daily routines or even the fictions we read and write. It’ll be no surprise then that in Irish culture the concept of time holds deep significance,…
An Ancient Christian Site of Innovation There’s something innately appealing about becoming self-sufficient; the freedom from punitive bills, the satisfaction of eating your own produce, the knowledge and skills developed to survive, or the innovations you conjure up to overcome seemingly impossible tasks. It’s both a blessing and a curse the dependency we have today…
Learning Irish is not just about vocabulary; it’s about building confidence to hold real conversations. For beginners, starting with mini-conversations—short, practical exchanges—makes the language accessible and immediately useful. I will never forget my woeful attempts at ordering food in Paris using my Norn Irish French, but it’s only through such experiences that we grow –…
Ballyaghagan Cashel: An Ancient Stronghold in the Belfast Hills Nestled in the Belfast Hills, overlooking the city beneath, lies Belfast’s ancient castle – Ballyaghagan Cashel – the remains of what was once an early medieval Cashel with evidence of settlement dating back at least as far as 3,500 years. Standing atop site today, you can…
Language is not just about facts and communication—it’s about expressing who we are. In Irish, emotions are often described in ways that reflect a deeper connection to the self and the world around us. Whether you’re happy, sad, or just a little tired, Irish offers a wealth of expressions to describe your feelings. This post…
The lost town of the ‘Strong Fort’ Perched precariously on a basalt outcrop, battered by the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Castle is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking medieval ruins. Located on the north coast of County Antrim, this dramatic stronghold has witnessed centuries of war, rebellion, and legend; inspiring artists and writers…
Ireland is often associated with the colour green, from its rolling hills to its national identity as the Emerald Isle. But the Irish language has a rich vocabulary for colours that extends far beyond this verdant landscape, reflecting the deep cultural connections to its hues. For beginners learning Irish, mastering colours is not only practical…
Corrstown Portrush: The Hidden Bronze Age Village The seaside town of Portrush, off the North coast of Northern Ireland, has become well known for its world famous golf, beautiful beaches, surfing, and fantastic restaurants – not for its ancient history. But a groundbreaking discovery in 2002 revealed an Irish Bronze Age settlement which has reshaped…
One of the most practical and empowering skills in any language is asking for and giving directions. In Irish, the rich vocabulary and poetic structure make even straightforward phrases a pleasure to learn. For beginners, mastering directional language helps you navigate both the landscape and the linguistic beauty of Gaeilge. This post delves into essential…