Relics and Rival Kings
The political setting had been transformed in February 1072, when Diarmait mac Máel na mBó, king of Leinster and Dublin and the dominant ruler in southern Ireland, was killed at Odba by Conchobar Ua Máelshechlainn of Mide. Diarmait’s former ally, Toirdelbach Ua Briain, king of Munster and grandson of Brian Bóruma, rapidly occupied the resulting space. He entered Leinster and Osraige, received submissions and extended his influence over Dublin. The Annals of Inisfallen say that leading rulers, including Conchobar’s son and Gofraid, king of Dublin, acknowledged his high-kingship in 1072.