Druim Grecraige’s Decisive Rout
Archived: 25 October 2026
In 1233 Feidlimid mac Cathail Chrobderg Ua Conchobair regained Connacht after his coalition, assembled with Cormac Mac Diarmata at Druim Grecraige, routed and killed his cousin Áed mac Ruaidrí and leading supporters. The victory displaced Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair’s descendants, despite Anglo-Norman involvement on both sides. Annalists interpreted Áed’s defeat through alleged crimes against churches, but their accounts also record political propaganda. Feidlimid destroyed four rival castles, including Bun Gaillme and Dunamon, asserting territorial control and imposing praised order. In Breifne, Cathal Ua Ráigillig’s forces defeated William de Lacy’s raiders. Obituaries illuminate church households’ roles in landholding, hospitality, mediation and welfare.