Clonmacnoise’s July Burning
Archived: 30 October 2026
Abstract
Records for 777 illustrate the difficulties of early Irish chronology. The Annals of Inisfallen report Nia son of Cú Allaid killed at Sliab Mis, the death of Connacht king Flaithrí son of Domnall, and the drowning of more than one hundred Connachta at Tír dá Glas. The Annals of Ulster's associated dossier, conventionally dated 778, describes Donnchad Midi's victory at Forchalad, Clonmacnoise's burning on 10 July, illness and cattle disease, and promulgation of Columba's law. It also notes deaths and conflict. Together the evidence depicts interconnected yet politically fragmented communities vulnerable to warfare, accidents, disease and monastic disaster across Ireland.