‘Mythology and Landscape Part 1: The Batle of Moytura and the Enchanted Forge’ (original) (raw)

2020, , Sligo Field Club Journal, Vol. 6, 127-140

The paper is introduced with a discussion of Dindsenchas; the medieval Gaelic lore of places, especially as it relates to the site of the mythic Battle of Moytura, in Co. Sligo. This was fought between the Tuatha de Danann and the Fomorians; opposing forces of good and evil in the pagan Gaelic pantheon, who contested the sovereignty of Ireland. Moytura is especially rich in ancient monuments, especially megalithic tombs but also cairns, standing stones, natural caves and souterrains, ringforts and cashels. A rich mythology and folklore is associated with the terrain and its monuments, especially lore relating to Fionn mac Cumhaill and the Fianna. A stone fort called Corrigeenacartha is identified as the site of the legendary forge of Loinn Mhic Liomhtha, the Enchanted Smith who forged weapons for the Fianna and who was the owner of an enchanted cow called Glas Gaibhneach, the ever-yielding Cow of Plenty that also features in the local folklore and Dindsenchas. Comparative sites elsewhere are discussed such as Mohernagartan, Co. Clare and the cave at Kesh Corran, Co. Sligo. The Enchanted Forge as a theme in the folklore of Gaelic Scotland is also referred to.

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