When thinking of Saint Patrick, the mental association that most easily comes to mind is undoubtedly with the city of Dublin.
This is thanks to the presence in the city of a Cathedral dedicated to the Saint, but especially to the historic St. Patrick’s Parade that takes place every March 17th through the city center streets.
However, all of Ireland expresses great devotion to its Patron Saint, with events throughout the country.
Here is a guide to the places of Saint Patrick across the various Irish counties, not just in Dublin.
Slemish Mountain, County Antrim
As a teenager, Saint Patrick was captured and used as a slave, practically “deported” to Slemish Mountain. His life in these places was characterized by shepherding activity for about six years, and his hagiography tells of great reliance on God precisely to endure such a situation.
Saul Church, County Down
It was here that Saint Patrick began his mission of converting thousands of people: upon returning to Ireland, he arrived in this county where a newly converted man offered him the use of his barn. In fact, the agricultural building became a place of worship known as Saul Church, which eventually also became the place where Saint Patrick stayed until his death.
St. Patrick’s Cathedrals, City of Armagh
Armagh is undoubtedly one of the places to visit if you are interested in the life of Saint Patrick, as here stand two churches dedicated to the Saint. The first is the Church of Ireland Cathedral, built on the site of an ancient church founded and constructed by Saint Patrick during his lifetime. The second is medieval and is the Roman Catholic Cathedral.
Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary
This place is definitely very important: better known as the “Rock of Saint Patrick,” this hill saw the baptism of Aenghus – king of Munster – performed by Saint Patrick. The event – of great spiritual and historical significance – effectively marked the end of paganism in these territories, with a clear opening to Christianity.
Croagh Patrick, County Mayo
A pilgrimage site par excellence, whose visit is recommended at the end of July: on the last Sunday of this summer month, thousands of devotees arrive here on pilgrimage, barefoot. The path is arduous, being a scree summit, but it is undertaken as a sign of devotion because Saint Patrick chose to fast on this summit for 40 days during Lent, symbolically following a path similar to Christ’s trial in the desert.
