Unearthing Macha

Follow in the footsteps of a legendary figure from Northern Ireland’s past. With over 20 years as a member of the Northern Ireland Tourist Guide Association, few guides are better equipped to bring the story of the Celtic Goddess Macha to life than Donna Fox. Over three spellbinding hours, Donna will lead you through a unique blend of history and legend built around Macha, a mythological hero that appears throughout Irish mythology. A sovereignty goddess, Macha is a central figure in the story of Ulster, with Armagh being named in her honour (“Ard Mhaca” meaning “Macha’s Height” in Old Irish). You’ll hang on Donna’s every word as she chronicles Macha’s feats and exploits, as well as other figures of old like Cú Chulainn, Conor MacNessa, and Deirdre of the Sorrows. Taking in three locations on the Hill of Armagh – The Crypt of St Patrick’s Cathedral dating back to the 13th century, No 5 Vicar’s Hill, and the 250-year-old Armagh Robinson Library – you’ll be captivated by the story of this Celtic Goddess (not to mention fearsome Warrior Queen!). You’ll learn all about this proto-superhero and how she represented power, fertility, and most importantly, a powerful embodiment of femininity. Along the way you’ll also take in the burial place of High King of Ireland Brian Boru, a statue of the pagan God/King Lugh, and other weird and wonderful sights and sounds. But more than simply learning about ancient Ulster, Donna will peel back the cover on modern-day Armagh, the locals that populate it, and the food it’s so rightly celebrated for. The striking views of green drumlins throughout, combined with the sumptuous meal at Aonach Mhacha at the end of the tour, make this a rich and multisensory experience worthy of any Celtic Goddess!

Armagh