Adomnán’s Last September
Archived: 1 November 2026
Abstract
In 704, Ireland witnessed major political reversals and the death of Adomnán, abbot of Iona. On 12 July, Cellach mac Rogallaig of Connacht defeated and killed Loingsech mac Óengusso, king of Tara, with three sons, at Corann; Congal Cennmagair succeeded him. Later, Cellach Cualann of Leinster repelled a southern Uí Néill force at Clóenad, while instability affected neighbouring dynasties. Annals also note Dál Riata's destruction at Glen Leven. Adomnán died on 23 September, leaving widely influential writings, diplomatic achievements and Cáin Adomnáin. These events reveal interconnected Irish, Scottish and Northumbrian worlds, though annalistic dating remains uncertain and their social consequences.