The Colmcille Heritage Centre sits on the shore of Gartan Lough on the edge of Glenveagh National Park. Displays in the centre tell the story of Colmcille’s early years in the Gartan area and describe the spread of early Christianity in Ireland and Scotland, giving details of monastic and religious life.
There is a replica of the 6th-8th century Bell of St Columba which was kept in the Gartan area and passed down through successive generations of one family. It was said that water drunk from the bell would cure any illness.
The Centre is open from the first Sunday in May until the last Sunday in October. Mondays-Saturdays 10.30-17.00 and Sundays 13.30-17.00.
The Colmcille Heritage Centre sits on the shore of Gartan Lough on the edge of Glenveagh National Park. Displays in the centre tell the story of Colmcille’s early years in the Gartan area and describe the spread of early Christianity in Ireland and Scotland, giving details of monastic and religious life. There...
This flagstone at Lacknacoo is one of the places where Colmcille’s mother Eithne is said to have given birth to him. The other place is at nearby Churchtown. The flagstone is dotted with small ‘cupmarks’. The origins of this ancient monument aren’t known but it may date to the Bronze Age....
Churchtown - Ráth Cnó - is said to be the place where Colmcille’s family lived. According to tradition they later gave over the land so that a monastic settlement could be created here. The site is still used as a turas by pilgrims who walk barefoot between the five marked stations....
Until the 16th century, the Rock of Doon was the inauguration site of the O’Donnell chieftains. There were two ceremonies - one civil ritual here and one religious ritual which took place at Kilmacrenan. It is likely that this was the site of a fort belonging to the O’Donnells. Manus O’Donnell...
This is where Colmcille is said to have lived with his foster father Cruithneachán. There are two parts to the site - the left hand side is linked to Colmcille while the right side is the site of a 19th century Church of Ireland church. This site formed part of...
Temple Douglas was an ancient monastic site which used to stand on the old road out of Letterkenny, the main route for travellers passing through the area. Colmcille is said to have been baptised here as a Christian in 521 by his foster father Cruithneachán mac Ceallachán. It was common...
Bòrd na Gàidhlig
Great Glen House Leachkin Road Inverness Scotland, IV3 8NW
