Mag Eitir’s Hostages
Archived: 28 October 2026
Abstract
In 882, annalistic sources record Flann Sinna, king of Tara, asserting authority through campaigns, alliances and hostage-taking. With a mixed Irish and Scandinavian army, he entered northern Fochla, camped at Mag Eitir dí Glais, invaded Armagh and reportedly secured hostages from Cenél Conaill and Cenél nEógain. He also raided Munster and took hostages there. Elsewhere, the Conaille defeated the Ulaid, killing King Ainfíth and other nobles, while Scannlán of Dún Lethglaise was killed. Deaths included Connacht’s king Conchobor and several prominent churchmen. The records portray fragmented politics, where military power, ecclesiastical prestige and shifting alliances shaped rule across Ireland broadly.