Echoes of Ancient Legends: Donn of the Dead
The enchanting world of Irish and Celtic folklore is characterized by myths and legends that have evolved throughout the ages, reflecting the changing lives of communities. An exemplary figure within this tapestry is Donn of the Dead, the ruler of the afterlife, often depicted in vibrant tales. His legacy is unveiled through his sons’ haunting proclamation: “we ride the horses of Donn – although we are alive, we are dead!”, a chilling reminder of mortality and the afterlife, especially highlighted in the story where they confront High King Conaire Mor. Throughout stormy nights, tales of Donn’s magnificent white steeds echo across the landscapes.
Historically, Donn has been portrayed as a benevolent healer and educator. In the ancient hills of Knockfierna, he is said to hold court amidst the “Giants Graves”—a mystical location surrounded by dolmens. Here, during Samhain, wanderers may encounter him as an elder garbed in white, imparting knowledge about the universe’s mysteries since the dawn of time.
In County Clare, Donn also presides as the leader of the Sand Hill fairies. The revered Irish poet Andrew Mac Crúitín, among the last to employ the traditional syllabic bardic form, expressed his reverence in verse, invoking the noble Donn.
Beneath those venerable sandy cliffs,
I pay homage to thee, O Mighty Don;
No mere stranger’s gesture for a sorrowed Gael,
But a heartfelt salute to your enduring spirit.
As I tread forlorn in the shadows of night,
I yearn for a response amid my enduring plight.
Out by the shore, like a ship lost at sea,
Awaiting solace from your providence to be.
Or like the mournful Oisín, lost in his grief,
Remembering the heroic camaraderie beneath the rocks’ relief.
As I wander, I find none of the Milesians
Or Old Saxon kin to offer solace on this land;
Left in your profound mercy, let your door open anew,
Allow this forsaken bard to find rest in you.
In addition to being a guardian of the spirit world, Donn is celebrated as the progenitor of the Maguires from County Leitrim and Diarmuid O’Donn of the Fianna.
The festival honoring Donn occurs during Samhain, marking the threshold between summer and winter, when the barrier between the living and the dead is at its thinnest. On this night, families would invite the spirits of their ancestors to enter their homes while warding off malevolent entities through various charms and chants. Wearing masks and costumes offered protection during the evening’s adventures, as it was believed that dark spirits could cause harm.
Traditions included preparing feasts for both the living and the deceased, as neglecting the latter could lead to misfortune for the year. The bones of slaughtered animals were cast into great flames, while domestic fires were extinguished, only to be reignited from the primary bonfire at Tlachtga near Tara, serving as a tribute to the sun. Many danced around the fires, hoping to glimpse the faces of those likely to meet their end in the year to come or, perhaps, a sight of their future spouse, although such encounters carried significant risk—one might meet the specter of Donn himself.
The tales told of the festival narrate that on this day, the souls of the departed convene in Donn’s dwelling, receiving his hospitality before journeying westward. Fishermen near the southern islands would witness otherworldly boats arriving, their eerie echoes calling out the names of those who stepped ashore. An ancient text captures the essence of these legends: “To me, to my house, you shall come after your death”.
Further legends recount the powerful first Milesian, also named Donn, who, alongside his brothers—Amergin the sage, Ir, Heremon, Arranan, Colpa, and Heber—arrived to claim Ireland. Upon their arrival, the brothers encountered three Sidhe Queens: Banba, Fodhla, and Ériu.
Ériu, perceiving the impending changes, predicted great fortune for the newcomers while requesting that they name their newfound land in her honor. Donn, brimming with confidence, dismissed her by claiming their strength and divine favor would guide their destiny, which incensed Ériu. In retaliation, she foretold that Donn would perish without leaving heirs to carry on his name.
As the Milesians prepared to confront the De Danann kings at Tara, they learned that their adversaries needed more time to gather their forces. Amergin, in a show of courtesy, agreed to withdraw their ships from the shores. Yet, the De Danann druids conjured fierce storms, scattering their fleet, leading to the demise of many warriors, including that of Donn. Consequently, the prophecy of Ériu materialized, marking the location of his watery grave at Bull Rock, now known as the resting place of Donn, where souls await their passage.
This mythical rock can be found on maps, although it remains a challenge to access.
