Cell Cuilinn’s Captives
Archived: 27 October 2026
Abstract
In the annal-year conventionally dated 938, Ireland saw political upheaval around Dublin and Leinster. Amlaíb son of Gothfrith returned to the Norse kingdom after Brunanburh, while its power extended towards Áth Truisten. He raided Cell Cuilinn, probably Kilcullen, plundering the church and carrying off many captives, a thousand in later accounts. Donnchad Donn and Muirchertach son of Niall prepared for battle but made peace, then besieged Dublin and ravaged its hinterland without evident conquest. Fergal of Ailech died, enabling Muirchertach to succeed, while regional rulers and church leaders died. The sources reveal contested authority, warfare, captivity, ecclesiastical vulnerability, and destruction.