Re-enactment of Medieval Pilgrimage

An ancient pilgrimage will be re-enacted in Derry on St Columba’s Day the 9th June. In 2013 the pilgrimage took place for the first time in over 400 years. There is an account of the pilgrimage in Manus O’Donnell’s Life of Colmcille which was written in 1532. On Tuesday the 9th June everybody is welcome to join the musicians and costumed monks on their walk.

5.30 p.m. The pilgrim walk will begin will start from the back of the Guild Hall. This was Port na Long (‘The Port of the Ships’). The pilgrims will walk the pilgrim way, banners flying, singing, and led by pipers.

5.45 First Stop: St Augustine’s Church. It is believed that Colmcille founded his first abbey here. When the pilgrims arrive, there will be a celebration of Church music in the Gaelic tradition with Jim O’Hagan, and David Gamble (pipers) Nollaig Ní Bhrollaigh and friends (harpers), Cór an Ghrianáin and readers Mary Murphy and Risteard Mac Gabhann.

6.45 p.m. Last Stop Áras Cholmcille, and the Long Tower Church, site of An Teampall Mór (the Great Church). Music from Cór an Ghrianáin.

7.00 p.m. End of pilgrimage.