Donnchad’s Cnoc Báine Hosting
Archived: 30 October 2026
Abstract
In annalistic year 771, Donnchad mac Domnaill, king of Tara, led a hosting to Cnoc Báine, probably in modern County Tyrone, demonstrating authority rather than recording a confirmed victory. The annals also note killings of Conchobor and Connacht rulers Áed Aithgein of Uí Maine and Art of Aidne. The law of saints Comán and Aedán was renewed across the three Connachts, illustrating church and secular collaboration. A severe Michaelmas thunderstorm prompted widespread fasting. Deaths included ecclesiastics from Clonard and Cluain Eidnig, and Suibne, abbot of Iona. Chronological discrepancies among later annals require caution when assigning additional events to this year.