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The Encyclopædia of Celtic Ireland. A general reference for study and discussion of all aspects of Ireland's culture and history, from the earliest times up to today. |
Mythology
(2 threads, 35 posts)
 The Ultonian Cycle
Historical Thread
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The Ulster or Red Branch Cycle consisting of tales dealing mostly with the traditional heroes of Ulster.
Most of the stories in this cycle center around the modern districs of louth and Down. The primary stronghold of ancient Ulster was Emain Macha which was said to have been destroyed in 332 AD. This site is now identified as with the site of Navan Fort near Armagh.
It was at Emain Macha that Conchobar presided over an elite group of warriors called the Red Branch (Craeb Ruad). The most prominent of these warriors were Fergus mac Roigh, Bricriu of the Poison Tongue, Conall the Victorious, Loegaire (Leary) the Triumphant, Sencha mac Ailill, Cathbad the druid, and of course Cu Chulainn.
Also found in these stories is the great antagonist of Ulster Madb (Maev or Maeve), Queen of Connacht and her husband Ailill. The ruled from the might fortress of Rath Cruachan (now called Rath Croghan.
