Did Saint Brendan Discover America First?

The Navigator, the Voyager, the Bold; Saint Brendan is known as one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland. Much of his life is shrouded in intrique and mystery.

Saint Brendan the Navigator was born in what is now County Kerry, Ireland more than 1500 years ago in 486 AD. He is known as a traveler and a founder of churches and monasteries. His most famous was Clonfert Cathedral in County Galway. The original monastery was founded here by Saint Brendan 563 AD and it is here that the great navigating saint is buried. Little else in known of the famous Irish Saint, save for what has been recorded in Irish annals, genealogies and a strange tale called "the Voyage of St Brendan the Navigator," written down in the ninth century and rewritten with various changes in several later manuscripts.

According to the medieval legend, St. Brendan and his band of monks embarked on a small boat upon a long Atlantic voyage in search of the Promised Land, the "Isle of the Blessed," a garden of Eden. A spirited 7 year journey ensues, complete with stormy seas, mythical creatures, many strange and wondrous sights. Eventually they landed on the fabled Isle of the Blessed, seven years west of Ireland. Though it is hard to tell which island this hero's journey landed in, many modern historians and scholars believe it is America.

Saint Brendan the Navigator is one of the most famous of Irish saints, but whether he discovered America has remained one of the continuing Irish mysteries. Journey to the birthplace of Saint Brendan, walk in the footsteps of saints and scholars, visit Ireland with Celtic Tours World Vacations.

10 reasons to visit Kerry in 2013 - The Gathering, Ireland

Kerry is known around the world for its stunning scenery and amazing natural amenities, which include the likes of Skellig Michael, Killarney National Park and Carrantoohil. But there are many other reasons to visit the region, especially with a whole host of events planned for The Gathering Ireland 2013. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - 10 reasons to visit Kerry in 2013

Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match - The Gathering, Ireland

Each September, thousands of single people flock to the small town of Lisdoonvarna in Co Clare in the hopes of meeting their match at the long-running Matchmaking Festival. Some simply move and mingle at the day-long dances, but others prefer to put their fate of finding a plus-one in the hands of a professional. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - Welcome to Dublin Town

From the friendly people and one-of-a-kind establishments to the city centre buskers and loads of green spaces, there are a million reasons why Dublin is a great place to be, even if it’s just for a day or two. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - Welcome to Dublin Town

10 reasons to visit Limerick in 2013 - The Gathering Ireland

Throughout Co Limerick, people and organizations are getting in on the fun of The Gathering. The county has a jam-packed calendar of festivals and special events throughout 2013, with so many that you won’t want to miss. Though we must admit it wasn’t easy to pick just 10 events, here are some of the highlights to look out for this year. 

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - 10 reasons to visit Limerick in 2013

96 reasons to be proud of your heritage: Connacht and Ulster

We’ve all read the school history book – words on a page about ‘what’s-his-name’. We’re asked to memorise dates and places and learn off parts of our history that are explained in a few hundred words. If you’re lucky, you might see a drawing of a battle or a painting depicting a King in all his regal finery. Learn More: The Gathering Ireland 2013 - 96 reasons to be proud of your heritage: Connacht and Ulster

The Gathering Ireland 2013 - All about trad

What makes Irish music so celebrated worldwide? Why is chancing upon an evening of informal music in a pub often the highlight of a visitor's trip to Ireland? And why is breaking into song the Irish response to almost any event, whether it’s the joy of friends getting together, the sadness of friends parting, or the extremes of sporting success and failure? Learn More: The Gathering Ireland 2013 - All about trad