Ruaidrí and Ultán’s Relics
Archived: 30 October 2026
Abstract
In 785, annalistic records noted political and ecclesiastical transitions across a divided, predominantly rural Ireland. Ruaidrí mac Fáeláin, Leinster overking, died, creating opportunities later exploited by Donnchad Midi and Bran Ardchenn. Máel Dúin of Loch Gabor and Dúnchad of Uí Maine also died, while Tipraite won an otherwise unexplained battle of the Muad. Relics of Ultán were carried on circuit, demonstrating mobile saintly authority and church patronage. Deaths included abbots, learned clerics, a scribe and Abbess Ellbríg. The notices reveal interconnected royal and religious networks, although they preserve little about ordinary people, chronology, motives, warfare, or material conditions in detail.