At the historic location of Emain Macha, where the ancient rulers of Ulster once presided, the realms of history and mythology intertwine, creating a narrative rich with heroism, strife, and spirituality. The name Emain Macha itself pays homage to a Celtic goddess, a unique distinction among Celtic sites. This connection even influences the name of Armagh.
In a grand feast hosted by the notable King Conor McNessa of Ulster, he welcomed distinguished guests, including a widower named Crunniuc, who lived with a young woman unbeknownst to him as the goddess Macha, disguised in human form. As the festivities progressed, Crunniuc boasted about her extraordinary capabilities, particularly her impressive speed. Fueled by irritation as the event continued, King Conor demanded Macha demonstrate her speeds by racing against his prized Arabian horses.
Despite being heavily pregnant, Macha pleaded that participating would pose risks to her life. Yet, undeterred by her protests, the king insisted, revealing that her refusal would lead to Crunniuc’s death. Faced with no choice, Macha agreed to the race. The course was laid out, and this seemingly unfair competition commenced. To the astonishment of Crunniuc and the ire of Conor, Macha outpaced the horses, showcasing her unmatched abilities even in her condition.
However, the exertion had dire consequences. The race triggered Macha’s labor, and she gave birth to twins at its conclusion. In ensuring her husband’s survival, she ultimately sacrificed her own life. Before passing, she gathered the strength necessary to impart both a remarkable blessing and a dreadful curse, embodied in the twins she left behind.
She conferred great strength and power upon the men of Ulster. Although Conor relished this empowering gift, he was simultaneously haunted by her ominous curse. During the province’s most critical moments, particularly when faced with existential threats, the men of Ulster would find their strength diminished, exposed and as vulnerable as a woman during childbirth.
Years later, as Conor McNessa, the greatest of Ulster’s legendary kings, continued his reign, Macha’s curse would profoundly affect the province in one of the most renowned tales within the Ulster Cycle, the Táin Bó Cúailnge, or Cattle Raid of Cooley. From this narrative, a heroic figure would rise to defend Ulster, destined to earn fame across Ireland. However, the true impact of Macha’s legacy—be it her curse or her blessing—remained to be seen.
As for the name Emain Macha, it translates to ‘Twins of Macha’. The anglicized version, Navan, stems from this original name. Yet, the significance of Macha extends beyond names; the name of Armagh derives from the Irish term Ard Macha, meaning ‘the heights of Macha’.
