Saint Brigid

River with St. Brigid statue kildare in the distance

A picture of the River with St. Brigid statue kildare in the distance

Courtesy of Kildare Town Heritage Centre

River with St. Brigid statue kildare in the distance
Courtesy of Kildare Town Heritage Centre

River with St. Brigid statue kildare in the distance

A picture of the River with St. Brigid statue kildare in the distance

Courtesy of Kildare Town Heritage Centre

Enlarge image

Brigid is one of Ireland's most famous and popular saints. She is most often associated with Kildare. However, many local areas throughout Ireland have specific traditions associated with St. Brigid.

When Christianity was brought to Ireland, it merged with many of the Pre-Christian beliefs and practices, including the use of sacred wells and fire.

Kildare Abbey

Kildare Abbey

Courtesy Kildare County Council

Kildare Abbey
Courtesy Kildare County Council

Kildare Abbey

Kildare Abbey

Courtesy Kildare County Council

Enlarge image

There was a deity in Pre-Christian Ireland called Brigid, who was associated with poetry, healing, smithcraft, nurture, fertility and fire. Much of the folklore and legends associated with St. Brigid is linked with traditions surrounding the ancient deity. It is often impossible to distinguish between the pre-Christian and the Christian Brigid.

In this unit, we will learn a little about this extraordinary saint and the traditions, and folklore associated with her.