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"People will not look forward to posterity who never look backward to their ancestors." Quotes Shops Ireland Bunús na Gaeilge Himself/Herself Write to Us Readers Write.. Links/Link to Us Advertise with us Awards & Testimonials |
Irish Celebrations & Feast Days - Martinmas And then there were the pigs. Theyd been feasting all summer and by St. Martins Eve, would be plump and full of flavor. In any event, the livestock that could not be wintered over would be sold, given away, or slaughtered to provide the family a supply of meat for winter. Whatever wasnt used immediately was salted, cured and stored in oak barrels where it would last for many months. In pre-christian Ireland, it was the custom to sacrifice an animal on St. Martins Eve and then sprinkle drops of its blood on the threshold, as well as in the four corners of the house. This was done to drive off any evil spirits and also to ensure prosperity for the coming year. History tells us that the animal most often selected for this ritual was a pig. Most likely, this was because it was the commonest and smallest of the domestic animals. Whatever was sacrificed, the sacrificial animal was later cooked and provided a hearty meal for the family. If it was a large animal, portions were traditionally shared with those who were less fortunate. To this day, while the ritual of sprinkling blood may have long died out, it is still customary in Ireland to make a meal of fresh pork on St. Martins Eve. |
![]() Brian Boru-Ireland's greatest King Brian was the twelfth son of Kennedy of Thomond. His eldest brother Malachi succeeded to the throne of Munster. Both Malachi and Brian were exceptional men. When the Danes began to overrun the country, the two brothers united, and swept them back inside their walled cities.Of the two brothers, Brian was more forceful, capable and energetic. When Malachi was killed by treachery, Brian was undisputed king. He reigned for thirty-nine years. |
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