Fethgna and Killashee
Archived: 28 October 2026
In 874, Féthgna, successor of Patrick and head of religion in Ireland, died after a long leadership of Armagh, highlighting that church’s political and spiritual authority. Áed Findliath, king of Tara, campaigned in Leinster, profaning Cell Ausili, probably Killashee, and burning other churches, demonstrating the vulnerability of sacred sites during royal coercion. Clerical deaths at Roscommon and Tamlacht emphasised the importance of bishops and scribes in administering wealthy, learned ecclesiastical communities. Foreign raiders plundered Cell Mór of Mag Enir. Against a changing Viking background following Ímar’s death, the year revealed Ireland’s interwoven military, religious, economic and intellectual pressures across society.